Instagram has launched a new feature called Replace Audio that allows users to swap out the music on published feed posts and carousels at any time, without needing to delete and re-upload the content.

The update allows users to change a post's soundtrack while retaining all existing likes, comments, shares, and reach. Instagram described the tool as part of its effort to give creators more creative control over their content.

Previously, changing a post's music required deleting it entirely and starting again, forcing creators to choose between keeping engagement and keeping up with trends. The new feature is accessed via the edit option in a post's menu.

The update follows a period of controversy around Instagram features that users did not want. The company recently removed a tool that allowed AI modification of photos from public accounts after backlash, and its Instants feature, which shares disappearing photos to a Friends list, caused confusion when users accidentally sent content to unintended recipients.