Instagram Stories are getting the update we’ve been waiting for

After months of being endlessly compared to Snapchat, Instagram Stories is getting a slew of updates that are super exciting and unique. The photo-sharing app has carved out its own place in this rapidly expanding field — the newest update comes with a ton of fun features that will help Instagram Stories to stand on its own, like sharing links (FINALLY), being able to use Boomerang, and getting to @ (mention) other users. Instagram Stories are about to get waaay more interesting.

Starting today, you can take and share a Boomerang right inside Instagram Stories! https://t.co/sdYOni8nwc pic.twitter.com/Aj75EfHGGN

— Instagram (@instagram) November 10, 2016

For now, us regular unverified folks only get to enjoy two of these new features — those with a blue checkmark will get to try out sharing links before us (the rest of us will be stuck with the all-too-familiar phrase, ‘Link in profile’). These links will allow you to connect to other Instagram stories and give a more narrative feel to the experience.

Links may still not be a universal feature, but the @mentions and Boomerang upgrades definitely are. Now you can type @ and a list of your Instagram contacts will show up, allowing you to tag them in relevant stories. Tapping on a tagged name will bring you to their user profile, giving you a new selection of people to follow. If you’re unsure how to use Boomerang in Instagram Stories, click here.

Now you can mention people in your Instagram Stories. Try it with your friends! https://t.co/sdYOni8nwc pic.twitter.com/gvF6VFSNOI

— Instagram (@instagram) November 10, 2016

Now excuse while we go play with these new features!