Instagram Makes Public Posts Searchable on Google Starting July 10

Starting July 10th, Instagram will allow public photos and videos from professional accounts to appear in Google search results. This is a major update that could boost visibility for businesses, influencers, and creators on the platform.

What’s Changing?

Instagram is now telling professional users that search engines like Google and Bing will soon be able to index their public content. That means your posts (photos, videos, and Reels) could show up when someone searches on Google, not just inside the Instagram app.

Who Does This Affect?

This update applies only to accounts that meet all of the following conditions:

1. The user is 18 years or older
   
2. The account is set to public
   
3. The account is a professional account (creator or business)
   

If your account meets these three conditions, all public content, even older posts, can be indexed by search engines.

Note: Content from private accounts or accounts of users under 18 will not be indexed.

What Type of Instagram Content Can Appear in Google?

If your account is eligible, the following types of public posts can appear in Google search results:

1. Photos
   
2. Videos
   
3. Reels
   

However, Stories and Highlights will not be indexed.

Why This Matters for Businesses and Creators

This is a huge opportunity for creators, brands, and small businesses. Until now, Instagram content rarely showed up in Google searches. Now, your posts could reach millions of potential customers directly through Google.

For example:

1. A fashion brand could rank for searches like “wedding dresses in Paris.”
   
2. A travel influencer might appear in results for “things to do in Bali.”
   

This change can help bring qualified traffic from search engines to your Instagram page, increasing views, engagement, and possibly sales.

How to Prepare for Instagram SEO

To take full advantage of this new feature, start optimizing your Instagram content like you would a blog post:

1. Use Keywords Wisely

1. Add relevant keywords to your post captions, alt text, and bio.
   
2. Think about what people would search for (e.g., “best vegan recipes” or “budget travel tips”).
   

2. Focus on Quality Content

1. Share posts that are helpful, inspiring, or educational.
   
2. Google prefers original and valuable content, even on social platforms.
   

3. Leverage Reels and Originality

1. Instagram favors Reels, and now Google might too.
   
2. Use original content to stand out both in the app and on search engines.
   

Want to Opt Out? Here’s How

Not every professional wants their content on Google. If that’s you, Instagram gives you three ways to opt out:

1. Go to Settings > Privacy > Search Engine Indexing > Turn Off
   
2. Set your account to private
   
3. Switch from a professional account to a personal one
   

Keep in mind: Even after disabling this feature, search engines may take time to stop showing your content. Your username, profile picture, and bio could still appear in search results for a while.

Also Read: Will Google’s AI Overviews Kill Traditional SEO? How to Adapt 

What About Personal Accounts?

If you use Instagram personally, this update likely won’t affect you. The change only targets public, professional, over-18 accounts.

Still, you can check your settings if you’re concerned:

• Go to Settings > Privacy > Search Engine Indexing > Turn Off
  

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Your Instagram Strategy

Instagram’s decision to let public content from professional accounts appear in search engine results marks a major turning point for digital marketing, SEO, and social media strategy.

A New Layer of Discoverability

Until now, Instagram content was mostly trapped within the app. This update removes that barrier and gives creators, influencers, and brands access to Google’s massive search audience. If you’re trying to grow your online presence, this is a golden opportunity to reach people who aren’t even on Instagram.

More Than Just Followers Think Traffic

This isn’t just about gaining more followers on Instagram. It’s about building an external discovery channel. Google indexing can:

1. Drive website traffic from your Instagram profile link
2. Boost product visibility for e-commerce accounts
3. Increase collaboration opportunities for creators
4. Build brand authority beyond social platforms

Start Thinking Like a Content Publisher

From now on, treat your Instagram profile more like a mini-website:

1. Use clear, keyword-rich captions
2. Keep your bio optimized with what you do and who you help
3. Add alt text to images for accessibility and search value
4. Make Reels and videos with searchable topics in mind (e.g., “how to style oversized jeans,” “easy home workouts,” etc.)

SEO Meets Social Media

This update blends two powerful online worlds SEO and social media. If you’ve been focusing only on the Instagram algorithm, it’s time to expand your strategy. Start learning the basics of search engine optimization and how to apply them to your content.

Don’t Forget Privacy and Control

You still have full control over your content’s visibility. If you’re not comfortable with this change, you can opt out in your settings. But for many professionals, the potential upside outweighs the risks.

Pro Tip: Treat Every Instagram Post Like a Google-Friendly Article

Think beyond likes and comments and ask:

1. “Would someone search for this?”
2. “Am I using the right keywords?”
3. “Does my post answer a question or provide value?”

With this mindset, you’ll be ready to grow your reach both inside and outside the Instagram app.