It is exciting to connect with new people on Instagram. However, it’s frustrating when the flow hits an obstruction, and you can’t respond to specific messages.
One of the most common causes of this issue is an outdated app. They regularly push updates, and if your device fails to auto-download, it starts acting up. Nevertheless, you can manually update the app and fix it.
But if you’re on the latest version, there could be something else. Let’s dive into the possible reasons and their fixes.
Why Can’t You Reply To Specific Messages & Fixes
There can be one or multiple reasons causing this. The most common ones are:
- There’s some temporary glitch on the servers.
- The feature is currently unavailable in your region.
- The feature is launched in batches. You’re yet to receive it.
- Your account was found violating terms, hence restricted on some features.
- Cache issues.
It’s common to encounter these issues, but the good news is there are simple fixes you can try. Let’s unfold how you can get back to replying to specific messages. Here are eight fixes you can try.
Fix 1: Update Instagram
Instagram keeps updating its features, and if you don’t update your older app version, there’s a chance you might face this issue.
Using an outdated version of the app may lead to compatibility issues and prevent you from accessing features like replying to a specific message.
- Go to your Play Store or App Store.
- Search for “Instagram”.
- If you see an Update option, click it.
This solution can resolve most of the Instagram issues, including invite collaborator not showing up.
Fix 2: Clear App Cache
Instagram has some temporary bugs at times, which might hamper the use of some features. Apps collect temporary files that can slow them down, eventually.
Therefore, by eliminating the app cache, you declutter the app and improve its functionality. Clearing the app cache will eliminate and delete corrupt data interfering with the app’s functionality. Here are the steps to do it.
- Go to your phone Settings.
- Navigate to App Management.
- Select Instagram.
- Go to Storage Usage.
- Select Clear cache.
Note: iPhone users don’t have the option to clear the cache. Therefore, you’ll have to offload the app to clear the cache.
Fix 3: Check Your Internet
Due to a weak or unstable connection, you might be unable to use the DMs fully. Ensure that you have a stable and active internet connection. Whether on Wi-Fi or using mobile data, ensure you have a strong signal to enable Instagram messaging.
Fix 4: Try Using a VPN
Instagram rolls out features region-wise. The feature may not be available in your region yet. You can use a VPN to change your location and replace it with the one where the feature has been rolled out.
For this, you first need to uninstall Instagram turn on the VPN, choose a location where this feature is already functional, and then download the Instagram app again. This way, you will be able to use the latest feature that is yet to be released in your region.
Fix 5: Using a Different Device
Sometimes, Instagram blocks your device’s IP address, or the device is no longer compatible with the latest version.
You can try to update your device in this scenario or simply log in from a different device and try using your messaging feature again.
Fix 6: Contact Instagram Support
If you’ve tried all the resorts and nothing seems to work, you must get help from the support team.
- Tap the Profile icon and go to the menu.
- Select “Settings and Privacy”.
- Go to the “Help” option.
- Navigate to the end and select “Report a problem”.
Feel free to state the issues you’re encountering and request that they provide a replying feature for your account. However, if you already have the feature but cannot use it, you can report the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can either hold the message and click the Reply option or hold and drag the message to the right, and you’ll see a typing window.
Step 1: Tap and hold the message.
Step 2: Select the laughing emoji from the options.
Wrap Up!
I hope the above fixes help you get back to enjoying the messaging feature on Instagram. Remember to keep an eye out for recent updates, as updating your app is the simplest solution that might enable you to reply to a specific message.
Leave a Reply