Instagram Rolls Out AI-Powered Story Editor with Restyle Tools

Instagram has taken a major leap in creative storytelling by integrating AI-powered editing tools directly into its Stories editor. Users can now transform photos and videos using simple text prompts or preset visual effects, eliminating the need for third-party apps and offering more control over AI-generated content.

Accessing the new AI features is straightforward. Tapping the paintbrush icon in Stories now opens a “Restyle” menu, allowing users to type instructions to modify visual elements. From changing hair color and adding accessories to swapping backgrounds or reimagining the entire scene’s style, the possibilities are extensive and intuitive.

Beyond prompt-based edits, Instagram’s update introduces preset effects that can redraw clothing, apply artistic painting styles, or animate video scenes with elements such as snowfall or flames. This makes content creation more dynamic and visually appealing while keeping the process simple.

Using these features requires acceptance of Meta’s updated AI terms, which grant Meta AI permission to process and modify uploaded media, including faces and backgrounds. The update reflects Meta’s broader push to embed generative AI across its platforms, moving from chat experiences to the core content creation workflow.

The rollout also coincides with efforts to enhance user safety, offering new parental controls that let guardians supervise teens’ interaction with AI-powered features. These steps indicate Meta’s intention to balance innovation with responsible usage.

By embedding AI editing directly into Instagram, Meta is making creative content generation faster, more accessible, and seamlessly integrated into everyday social sharing. The move positions Instagram as a competitive platform in the growing race to merge social media with AI creativity.