Instagram could soon roll out a Snapchat-style video chat feature for iOS and Android app

First reported by technology blog WABetaInfo, the option to video call will only be available in pre-existing Instagram conversations.

A leaked screenshot allegedly shows a new video call icon in the top-right corner of an Instagram Direct message.

The icon would enable video calling with a one-tap gesture.

When asked about the feature, a spokesperson told TechCrunch 'We don't comment on rumors and speculation'.

First reported by technology blog WABetaInfo, the option to video call will only be available in pre-existing Instagram conversations.

A leaked screenshot allegedly shows a new video call icon in the top-right corner of an Instagram Direct message.

The icon would enable video calling with a one-tap gesture.

When asked about the feature, a spokesperson tThe feature is thought to be under development and, if it is released, will not be available for several months.

If the video chat feature goes ahead, it could allow users to more actively engage with the app - something parent company Facebook has made a 'priority' in its own network.

Facebook, Instagram's parent company, already offers the ability to video call, with 17 billion video chats using the app in 2017. Instagram itself has increased the use of videos on the platform with users able to send short video clips to one another. As well as the disappearing messages, users can also pop-up in 'live' stories, much like a chat-show. Snapchat already allows its users to make audio and video calls alongside offering a dedicated chat option.

(In the last month alone, the California based tech giant has introduced screenshot alerts, landscape stories and a variety of fonts. Now, Instagram is investigating the possibility of a Snapchat-style video chat)