Instagram is testing a new AI-powered feature that lets users create and send custom songs directly within Direct Messages. The tool allows users to write their own lyrics, pick a music genre, and generate an AI track to share with friends.
How It Got To Be Known
Social media creator Jonah Manzano first spotted the feature and shared screenshots showing how it works. When users tap the song creation button in their DM options, they get prompted to enter lyrics and select a genre. The AI then generates a full track based on those inputs. Meta described the addition as “a fun engagement option” for users to enhance their conversations with humor and creativity.
The feature is currently in testing, and Meta has not confirmed a specific launch date or wider rollout timeline. However, the company appears to be positioning it as a free tool available through standard DM features, rather than locking it behind a subscription.
Chat-to-Song Now
That approach stands in contrast to Snapchat’s similar “Chat-to-Song” feature. Snapchat launched its version on September 21, giving users the ability to select a message and genre to generate an AI song from chat text. However, Snapchat restricts the tool to paying Lens+ subscribers only. Instagram’s decision to offer a comparable feature for free could give it a competitive edge among younger users who discover and share music through social platforms.
This is not Instagram’s first AI-driven addition to DMs. Earlier this year, the platform rolled out AI voice effects that transform voice notes with different styles and tones. In February 2025, Instagram also added music sharing in DMs, allowing users to send 30-second previews of songs from its music library in group chats and broadcast channels.
Only A Harmless Tool Or…?
Meta has been investing heavily in generative AI tools across its platforms. The company’s open-source MusicGen model, built through its AudioCraft research project, already demonstrates its capability to generate music from text prompts. The Instagram DM song feature likely builds on similar underlying technology, although Meta has not disclosed which model powers it.
The move follows a broader industry trend of social platforms integrating AI music generation into messaging and content creation workflows.
