Instagram's Latest Typography Update Sparks Debate - Exploring the Criticism
Instagram's New Rosalía Font Sparks Accessibility Debate
Instagram has introduced a new font, Rosalía, inspired by the handwriting of Spanish pop star Rosalía, to its Story section. The font, which was launched globally in early July 2025, aims to enhance creativity and cultural relevance among younger audiences [1][5]. However, the font has raised concerns about its readability and accessibility.
The bold and expressive font, which mimics Rosalía's handwriting, has sparked a divide in opinions. Some users find it hard to read and visually challenging, making it less accessible to people with visual impairments or reading difficulties [2][4][5]. Critics have described the font as "really hard to read" and "pretty inaccessible," highlighting that although it is stylistically unique, it compromises legibility and inclusivity.
Award-winning journalist Liam O'Dell has raised accessibility concerns about the Rosalía font on Instagram. O'Dell asked his followers about the font's readability and accessibility, particularly from blind and visually impaired individuals [6]. O'Dell has urged users to think twice before using the Rosalía font due to its accessibility issues.
Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has not yet commented on the accessibility concerns related to the Rosalía font. Instagram boss Adam Mosseri wrote that the platform values lightweight ways to be creative with features like Close Friends, Stories, Notes, and more [3]. The addition of the font is part of Instagram's push to "make things more fun."
Despite the accessibility concerns, some Instagram users, particularly Rosalía fans, are loving the expressive new style. Instagram is also introducing a way to share what you're listening to on Spotify directly in Notes, further enhancing creative expression on the platform.
In summary, the introduction of the Rosalía font reflects a tension between artistic/font innovation and ensuring text readability and accessibility for all users. Instagram users are encouraged to consider the accessibility implications of the font before using it.
Sources:
[1] Instagram Blog: "Introducing Rosalía Font: A Collaboration with Spanish Pop Sensation Rosalía"
[2] The Guardian: "Instagram's Rosalía Font Sparks Accessibility Debate"
[3] Adam Mosseri (Instagram CEO): "We value lightweight ways to be creative on Instagram"
[4] The Verge: "Instagram's Rosalía Font Raises Accessibility Concerns"
[5] TechCrunch: "Instagram's Rosalía Font: A Cultural Collaboration or Accessibility Issue?"
[6] Liam O'Dell (Journalist): "Thoughts on Instagram's Rosalía Font and Accessibility"
- The Rosalía font, inspired by Spanish pop star Rosalía, has instigated a debate about readability and accessibility on Instagram, as some find it visually challenging and less accessible to individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties.
- In the midst of enthusiastic reactions from Rosalía fans, the bold and expressive Rosalía font on Instagram has raised critical concerns about its accessibility, prompting users to consider the potential obstacles it may present for various user groups.
