Instagram isn’t just for selfies and scrolling anymore, it’s now part of the search engine world. Thanks to a major update that rolled out on July 10, 2025, public content from professional Instagram accounts can now show up in search engine results like Google.
This means that what you post on Instagram can go way beyond your followers and reach people searching for what you share.
Want your Instagram profile and posts to rank higher in search?
Instagram and Search: What Changed in 2025?
Instagram rolled out a major SEO upgrade that now allows professional public content (think Reels, carousels, and photo posts) to appear in Google search results. Yes, that’s right, your Instagram content can now be indexed by search engines.
This update makes Instagram an even more powerful marketing and branding tool, especially for creators, influencers, and small businesses.
What Is the July 10 Instagram SEO Update?
On July 10, 2025, Instagram began allowing content from public professional accounts to be indexed by search engines like Google. This means:
- Your Instagram content can now appear in Google search results
- AI-powered summaries and overviews might pull in your Reels or carousels
- Captions, bios, and even alt text can impact your SEO visibility
So if someone Googles something like “how to style white sneakers” or “easy healthy recipes,” your Instagram post could pop up, even if they’ve never followed you or used the app.
How Instagram Users Can Take Advantage of SEO
Not a tech wizard? No problem. Here’s how you can use Instagram and SEO together without overcomplicating things.
1. Use Clear, Keyword-Rich Captions
Instead of just saying “great day,” try “sunset yoga on Venice Beach.” Think about what you would Google if you wanted to find a post like yours.
2. Don’t Skip the Alt Text
Instagram lets you customize alt text (image descriptions). Instead of leaving the default, write something descriptive: “vegan smoothie bowl with strawberries and chia seeds.”
3. Geotag Your Posts
If you’re a local creator or business, this helps your posts show up for local search queries like “coffee shops in Austin.”
4. Optimize Your Bio
Your Instagram bio is searchable, too! Use clear, niche-relevant words like “fashion blogger,” “vegan recipes,” or “fitness coach.”
Want to make your Instagram profile SEO-friendly?
Instagram SEO Tips for Better Reach in 2025
To help your Instagram posts show up in search engines, follow these simple best practices:
- Use SEO keywords in your captions (naturally, not stuffed)
- Write descriptive alt text manually
- Keep your account set to “Professional” and public
- Post consistently—Google favors fresh content
- Create posts people save and share (higher engagement = better rankings)
What Kind of Instagram Content Performs Best Now?
The same great content you’ve been creating, just with a little optimization love.
High-performing content includes:
📹 Short Reels with searchable titles like “3 Quick Dinner Ideas”
📸 Carousel posts with tips, how-tos, or step-by-step guides
✍️ Captions that answer common questions (“How to take better night photos”)
🗂️ Story Highlights labeled clearly (“Skincare Tips,” “Behind the Scenes”)
When done right, your Instagram content can act like a blog post. Search engines pick up the keywords, the visuals, and the intent.
Avoid These Instagram SEO Mistakes
❌ One-word captions—always write at least one full sentence
❌ Ignoring alt text—custom alt text is a quick SEO win
❌ Private account—only public, professional profiles get indexed
❌ Vague bios—your bio should describe who you are and what you post
Remember: the goal is to help both Instagram’s algorithm and Google’s algorithm understand what your content is about.
How SEO Services Can Boost Your Instagram Reach
You don’t have to figure it all out yourself. An experienced SEO consultant (like the team at JovieSocial 👋) can help you:
- Find the best keywords for your niche
- Optimize your profile, captions, and content
- Create a content plan that aligns with search trends
- Track your visibility and adjust strategies over time
If you want to turn your Instagram into a visibility machine, you need a mix of creativity and search strategy and that’s where SEO services come in.
Let JovieSocial help you blend SEO and Instagram perfectly.
Instagram + SEO: A Future-Proof Combo
In 2025, being successful on Instagram isn’t just about having pretty posts. It’s about being seen everywhere. Thanks to the latest updates, your content can now work for you beyond the app.
By applying simple SEO strategies to your profile and posts, you’re setting yourself up for long-term visibility across both social and search platforms.
Whether you’re a creator looking for more reach or a business owner wanting more traffic, Instagram + SEO = growth.
Quick Summary:
- Instagram’s 2025 SEO update lets professional public content show in search engines
- Optimize captions, alt text, bios, and geotags for better visibility
- SEO and Instagram now go hand in hand, especially for brands and creators
- Avoid basic mistakes like vague captions or missing alt text
- Jovie Social offers SEO coaching and services to help you grow on and off Instagram
