The popular photo sharing app Instagram has added a new feature that claims to be able to determine your ethnic breakdown, using nothing more than a photo of you face. Ancestry DNA tests have become increasing popular in recent years thanks to companies such as 23andme – although the process can cost anywhere from $99 to almost $500. The new Instagram feature offers a fun, cheap alternative – but does it have any scientific basis whatsoever? Let’s find out…
How to access the DNA test feature
After downloading the Instagram smartphone app and logging in, simply follow the steps below:
- Open Stories
- Click on your face to access the filters menu
- Scroll all the way to the end and click on the magnifying glass icon
- Click on ‘Browse Effects’
- Search for ‘DNA Test’
- Select the filter by korobov_denis
How it works
The filter scans your facial features and calculates your ethic breakdown. So for example, it might tell you that your are 40% Italian, 5% Russian and so on. It appears to work instantly, and doesn’t require any other information or physical DNA samples.
Is it accurate?
Although the filter appears to be a hit with users, many have pointed out that the results seem to be random – with some people who repeat the test receiving wildly different results each time. Other users have been told that they are an entirely different race.
It seems that the filter simply uses a random number generator to spit out a result. It should be seen as a fun novelty filter rather than a serious DNA test.
Where to get a real DNA test
If you need a DNA test for a serious reason, such as a paternity test, you should contact a professional testing laboratory that is ISO accredited and government approved. Only an accredited lab can provide results that are admissible in a court of law. You can find a list of accredited DNA laboratories, along with impartial customer reviews and pricing information, at dnatestingchoice.com.
