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Instagram's NEW Algorithm - Here's What's Changed in 2025 | heyDominik

Video Summary and GPT Prompt (save 13+ minutes)

Oct 21, 2025
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If you’ve been posting consistently on Instagram but your reach has flatlined, or your content just isn’t hitting the way it used to, this video explains why.

It’s a super clear breakdown of what’s changed in the Instagram algorithm, what’s actually working in 2025, and how to shift your strategy without doing more. This is a must-watch if you’re ready to simplify and grow.

Hannah @ The Iris Agency

Watch the video here (or continue scrolling to save 13+ minutes).

✨ Why This Matters:

Instagram in 2025 is no longer about volume, it’s about depth. The algorithm now prioritizes content that holds attention and builds trust over time, which is good news for heart-led business owners who want to make meaningful impact, not just go viral.

If you’re putting time into content but not seeing growth, it’s likely not your frequency. More likely it’s your format, your hook, or how long people are staying engaged. This video breaks down exactly what’s changed, what’s working now, and how to adapt without burning out or guessing.

🤓 What It Teaches:

  1. Reels vs. Carousels: Know When to Use Each

    • Carousels are now outperforming Reels in saves, shares, and likes—making them the best format for building trust and community.

    • Reels still drive the most impressions, but are best used for reach, not depth.

    • Use Carousels to nurture, Reels to expand. Both are essential.

  2. Forget Posting Daily, Focus on Consistency + Quality

    • Posting 3–4 high-quality Reels per week is more effective than daily low-effort posts.

    • Post at least once a week to stay in the algorithm’s rotation.

    • Prioritize content that holds attention, not just frequency.

  3. Upgrade Your Reels: Go Longer to Perform Better

    • Short, 5–10 second Reels are fading.

    • The new sweet spot: 11–30 seconds or 60–120 seconds.

    • Reels that sustain viewer attention for 1–2 minutes see compounding growth.

    • Use Descript to easily create authentic, talking-head style reels sharing your expertise and your story (this is an affiliate link, I only recommend what I use and love).

  4. Shift Your Hashtag & Caption Strategy

    • Hashtags no longer drive reach. Use them sparingly for SEO, not visibility.

    • For Reels: short captions with strong first 6 words.

    • For Carousels: longer captions with clear, emotional storytelling.

  5. Retention > Timing: When You Post Matters Less Now

    • There’s no universal “best time to post.”

    • The algorithm pushes content when it performs, not just when it’s published.

    • Focus more on content quality and retention than hitting a perfect posting time.

  6. Strong Hooks Are Now Non-Negotiable

    • Your first 1–2 seconds determines whether someone stays or scrolls.

    • A small improvement in your hook = more views, more saves, more growth.

    • If your content is underperforming, improve the start, not just the message.

  7. Carousel Length Doesn’t Matter, Retention Does

    • There’s no magic number of slides. Some of the best-performing carousels have 20+ slides.

    • The goal is retention. Every slide should earn the next one.

The algorithm in 2025 is rewarding creators who create content that’s both intentional and engaging. If you focus on audience retention, consistent value, and strong storytelling; your content will be pushed further. You don’t need to post more, you need to post better.

🌈 Apply It:

Copy & paste this prompt into ChatGPT to instantly bring this video’s wisdom into your business.

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