Instagram, the world's number one photo sharing app, has added the much sought after 'Archive' option to its iOS and Android apps, enabling users to hide old photos from the public view, without actually deleting them.

The particular feature has been part of Instagram's parent company, Facebook, for years now. Facebook users can adjust their photo's privacy for their eyes only, or their friends, or even a specific group of friends.

If you are a long-time Instagram user (like myself), then this feature will definitely make your experience on the platform much more convenient, since most people have old photos that are a little bit embarrassed about, yet simultaneously you don't want to erase them from your life.

How does Instagram's Archive work?

The process is very simple; all the user has to do is tap '...' at the top of the post and select the 'Archive' option. From then on, the particular photo can only be viewed by the user himself. The photo can be made available to the public again by selecting the 'Show on Profile' tab.

Instagram's statement on the new feature reads:

"Your profile is a representation of who you are and evolves with you over time. With Archive, you now have more flexibility to shape your profile while still preserving moments that matter."

How do I get the new feature on my phone?

The Archive integration is part of Instagram's wider 10.21 update, available on both Apple's iOS App Store and Google's Play Store. Therefore, make sure your app is up to date by checking in with your device's respective app store.

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The update weighs 22.34MB. Windows Mobile users will have to wait a little longer in order to receive the latest goodies. As of now, Instagram has not disclosed any specific info with respect to the Windows Mobile release date.

In its previous major update, Instagram enabled users to share posts they see on the platform as messages, by tapping the arrow under the post. Creating group conversations is also available, which the user can label, in order for them to be easy to find.

The functionality is compatible with photo and video format and has significantly upgraded the company's instant messaging capabilities.

At the time of writing this article, Instagram has over one billion downloads in both iOS and Android, while serving about 700 million active monthly users, rendering it as the second most used social network in the world, after Facebook.

What are your thoughts on the Archive feature? Let us know in the comments below.