Have you noticed anything different about your Instagram app lately? For some users, the familiar font seems to have vanished, replaced by something much bolder and, according to many, much uglier. Over the past few days, reports have surfaced, particularly on Instagram’s subreddit, from users complaining about an unexpected font change across the app.
It appears the text in chats, profiles, and other parts of the interface has become significantly bolder and larger for a select group. The reaction has been swift and largely negative. Many are wondering if they accidentally changed a setting or if something is wrong with their app.
Here’s a comparison of the old vs new font, see if you can spot the difference:
User ryanthelyon_orig asked on Reddit, “Has the font on instagram changed?? It look really different and i hate it”. Another user, Overall_Complex_5886, echoed the sentiment, simply stating, “mine is different too, it’s so ugly I hate it”. Nuggets_King also described it as “much bigger and…. fu**king ugly”. The frustration is clear, with many asking how to switch back to the old style.
Interestingly, the change doesn’t seem widespread. Personally, I haven’t noticed this change on my Instagram app, either on iOS or Android. Some Reddit users also report seeing the new font on one account but not another, even when using the same device. This inconsistency strongly suggests this isn’t a universal rollout but rather a limited test.
Instagram frequently tests new features and design elements on small segments of its user base before deciding whether to release them broadly. Recently, it took away an experimental feature from some accounts that allows users to recommend their Reels to random people on Facebook. This testing allows them to gather feedback and data on user reactions. While Instagram hasn’t officially commented on this apparent font test, the user feedback so far seems overwhelmingly critical.
That said, it’s also possible that it’s simply a bug that managed to slip through the cracks. It might get fixed shortly if that’s the case. For those currently stuck with the bolder font, there doesn’t appear to be a way to revert it manually. Standard troubleshooting steps like restarting the app, clearing the cache, or even reinstalling haven’t worked for most affected users. It seems they’ll have to wait and see if Instagram rolls back the change based on feedback or eventually makes it permanent. Only time will tell if this “ugly” font is here to stay.
Dwayne Cubbins
829 Posts
For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.
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