How to Set Up Automatic Messages on Instagram: Complete Guide 2026
· 4 min
Why Use Automatic Messages on Instagram in 2026?
Instagram has established itself as the main platform for sales and customer relationships in Brazil. There are over 120 million active users in the country, and most consumers expect quick responses when interacting with a brand. The 2026 Response Velocity Study by Entagl, which analyzed 32,581 sales conversations, found that 78% of consumers buy from the business that responds first — and that replies within 1 minute convert at 35.1%, versus only 12.2% when the response takes 5 to 60 minutes. This data shows that response speed is no longer a differential — it’s an obligation.
The automatic message feature on Instagram addresses this bottleneck by instantly responding to comments, DMs, and interactions in Stories. It’s not about sending spam: it’s about creating quick, personalized experiences that lead the follower to conversion.
What Are Automatic Messages on Instagram?
They are pre-configured responses that are triggered automatically when someone interacts with your profile in a specific way. They work through the official Instagram API (Meta), ensuring total security and compliance with the platform's rules. Unlike illegal bots that simulate clicks, the official automation operates within Instagram's terms of use.
Types of Available Automation
- Automatic Comment Responses: when someone comments a keyword like "want" or "price", they receive an automatic DM with the programmed content
- Welcome Messages: automatically sent when someone starts following your profile, creating a positive first impression
- DM Self-Service: interactive menus with buttons that direct the customer to price information, catalog, support, or scheduling
- Story Responses: when someone replies to your Story with a keyword, they receive exclusive content in the DM
- Nurturing Sequences: after the first contact, the follower receives programmed messages over several days, building a relationship
Step-by-Step to Set Up Automatic Messages
1. Have a Business or Creator Account
To use automations, your account needs to be a business or content creator account. Go to Settings > Account > Switch Account Type. Personal accounts do not have access to the official API.
2. Choose a Reliable Automation Tool
Always opt for tools that use the official Meta API. This ensures that your profile will not be penalized, blocked, or shadowbanned. XP Chat exclusively uses the official API and offers unlimited automation with plans starting at R$89.90/month.
3. Set Up Your Triggers
Define the keywords that will trigger the automatic responses. The more specific the triggers, the better the follower's experience. Practical examples:
- "price" → sends price list via DM
- "buy" → sends direct purchase link
- "catalog" → sends PDF or carousel with products
- "coupon" → sends exclusive discount code
- "schedule" → sends scheduling link