This seems to be a tipping feature that is being tested for the Reels format, where a new button will appear at the bottom of your uploaded Reels, allowing your followers to send you money directly. This should not be confused with a similar feature called Badges, which was introduced in 2020 to allow users to tip their creators in live streams. Badges can cost users anywhere between $0.99, $1.99 or $4.99. However, we have no idea what the minimum threshold for a Gift will be or even if you would be able to get them in the first place.
This is because screenshots leaked released by app researched Alessandro Paluzzi showcase that there is an eligibility criterion that needs to be fulfilled before you are able even to activate the button on your reels. So, chances are, you might need to fulfil a YouTube-like minimum threshold before you become eligible for the program, even if and when it is released to the public at large.
While they are yet to say when it will be officially released, it is only a matter of time, as other apps like TikTok, Twitter and even Tumblr have launched similar Tip Jar style features in the last year. So, Instagram needs to hurry up if they truly want to keep up with the competition.
