This is where you design the message itself: how it is written, what it contains, and how quickly it goes out.
Above the message box you will see a Manual and an AI Copilot toggle.
Manual: you write one message and everyone who triggers the automation receives it. Predictable and fast to set up, ideal when the message is the same every time, such as sending a link or a welcome. You can still personalise it with variables (see below).
AI Copilot: instead of a fixed message, you give the AI context and a goal. It reads each comment and writes a reply that fits, and only sends when a reply genuinely makes sense. Ideal when comments vary a lot and you want each DM to feel personal and on brand. Write clear guidance: your goal, the tone to use, and anything it should always mention or always avoid.
Tip: start with Manual for full control over the wording, then move to AI Copilot once you want replies that adapt to what each person actually said.
Advanced Settings
Using variables
Using variables
In Manual mode you can drop in variables that are replaced with the recipient's details when the DM is sent. Tap the badges below the message box to insert them:
@username: the person's handle.
Display Name: the name shown on their profile.
For example, "Hey {{username}}, thanks for the comment, here is the link you asked for" arrives with their handle already filled in. A name near the start makes the message feel one to one rather than mass sent. In AI Copilot mode you do not need variables, the AI already addresses people naturally.
Adding an image
Adding an image
Add one image to send with the DM. Supported formats are JPEG, PNG and WebP, up to 8 MB. A clear visual, such as a product shot or a cover image, helps your message stand out in the inbox.
Using message buttons and links
Using message buttons and links
Buttons sit under your message and make it easy for the recipient to act. You can add up to three, and drag to reorder them. There are two types:
Link button: has a label and a web address. When tapped, it opens that link. Use it to send people to a sign up page, a product, or anything off platform.
Message button: when tapped, it sends a short piece of text as the recipient's own reply, for example a button labelled "Yes please". Available on Instagram.
Creating an Opening DM
Creating an Opening DM
Adding a Message Button is how you create what is often called an Opening DM: a first message with a button that invites the follower to tap and reply. That tap counts as their reply, which opens the conversation and lets your follow up messages be delivered. If your goal is to start a back and forth rather than just hand over a link, include a Message Button so the follower has a one tap way to respond. See Following up after the first DM for what happens next.
Set your reply speed
Set your reply speed
Reply speed controls how soon the DM goes out after the comment arrives:
Immediately: sent right away.
Within 1 minute
Within 5 minutes
Within 1 hour
For the timed options, the DM is sent at a natural moment inside that window rather than at an exact second, so your replies do not all land in lockstep. Instant replies suit a link people are actively waiting for, while a short delay can feel more human for a welcome, and a natural sending pattern is generally kinder to your account's standing on the platform.