Instagram's new Explore features could get users a lot more followers

Instagram has announced brand new updates to the Explore tab, which could let a lot more users see your posts.

The social network has started rolling out Location Stories, which will allow you to view Stories posted from any particular area you happen to be interested in.

All you need to do is enter a location in the search bar or tap on a location that appears on a post.

If your account is set to public and you post a Story that contains a location or a location-based sticker, that post could also appear in other people’s Explore tabs.

From there, they'll be able to view your Stories, tap through to your profile and follow you.

You can find out if it features on a location page by looking at who’s seen your Story.

If you want to remove it from that page, simply tap the X key.

If your account is set to private, only your followers will be able to view the posts you've shared, and photos and videos from your story won't appear on hashtag or location pages.

Instagram has also announced Hashtag Stories, which works in a very similar manner.

As its name suggests, it works for Stories that contain hashtags rather than location data or stickers.

“From discovering new parts of your own city to jogging alongside the #fromwhereirun community all around the world, location and hashtag stories help you share these experiences as they unfold,” says Instagram.

“Location stories on Explore are available on iOS and Android as part of Instagram version 10.22 in the Apple App Store and Google Play. Hashtag stories will be rolling out over the coming weeks.”