The background in an Instagram conversation makes messages hard to read. How do I change it?
The short answer
Open that conversation, tap its name at the top, then look for Themes. Choose a simpler option from the available list. A chat theme changes the background and message-bubble colours for everyone in that conversation, so ask the other person before changing a shared look.
What this answer is based onWhat to do
If Themes is missing, stop at that point rather than looking for an unofficial theme installer. For an urgent arrangement, send the key details as a short, clearly worded message while you work out a readable setup.
- Open the affected Instagram conversation and tap the chat name at the top. Look for Themes in the chat details. Check the conversation name before choosing anything, especially if several group chats have similar names.
- Tell the other participants that the current background is difficult to read. If Themes is available, choose a less busy option from the list shown in your app. Use the actual choices there; an old screenshot may show a theme that is no longer offered.
- Return to the messages and read a few ordinary lines, including a link or address. Ask the other person whether the new colours work on their screen too. If they do not, open Themes again and choose another available option together.
The situation
A trip-planning group has a colourful theme. It suits the holiday, but one friend struggles to pick out addresses and departure times. A plainer theme could make those messages easier to follow.
The situation and an improvement
You choose a striking background assuming it changes only your own screen.
You choose a shared theme that makes the conversation comfortable to read for the people using it.
More examples
A friend dislikes the new colours
You changed the theme and your friend says the messages are harder to follow.
What to do
Reopen Themes and agree on another available design; changing the appearance again does not require a new chat.
The old theme is no longer listed
A tutorial names a design that you cannot find in your app.
What to do
Choose from the options you can actually see. The useful goal is readable messages, not reproducing an old screenshot.
What this answer is based on
Meta · Edit Your Messages, Pin Your Chats and More Instagram DM Updatesabout.fb.comMeta · Meta’s AI Products Just Got Smarter and More Useful (25 September 2024)Guide based on Meta’s materialReview details
Source reviewed:
We read the official source listed for this topic. Other Meta rules are reviewed separately.
Checked 12 November 2026: the relevant sections of Meta’s 4 March 2024 DM update (page also dated 3 April 2024) and 25 September 2024 AI update were read. They describe the Themes route and changes for everyone in a chat. Readability checks and agreeing with participants are ClearRules advice. No account test or universal availability is claimed.
Material published: March 4, 2024
Material updated: April 3, 2024
Include the guide link, language and wording that needs checking. Add an official source link if you have one. Do not send passwords, login codes or photos of identity documents.
Examples are made up to explain the guidance. Meta decides individual account and content cases.
Sources and related topicsPolicy Graph · Demo in development