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Instagram Unveils First Wordmark Redesign in a Decade

Instagram says the redesign will modernize its identity to reflect how people use the app, with a global roll-out through 2026.

Overview

  • The new bolder, script‑influenced wordmark was unveiled by Instagram and first shared publicly on Thursday, Aug. 13, marking the app’s first top‑mark change in ten years.
  • Instagram’s design team said it tested hundreds of directions and kept a handwritten feel while also creating three new typefaces called Instagram Sans, Instagram Pen, and Instagram Mono.
  • The updated wordmark is already appearing in users’ iPhone and Android apps and Instagram says the rest of the refreshed brand system will continue to roll out globally through 2026.
  • Reaction has been mixed, with widespread social media criticism focused on legibility—many users say the new cursive 'r' reads like a 'z'—and several brands posting parodies.
  • Instagram design leaders have defended the choices, saying external feedback informed the work; designers and accessibility advocates will be watching whether the mark proves readable in real use and across features like Reels and in‑app shopping.