Instagram and Facebook Will Let You Decide Whether to Hide the Number of “Likes” or Not

Apr. 15, 2021

Instagram is finally coming out with a feature that lets users see the like-counts on posts and videos again. The Facebook-owned platform, as per recent reports, has launched a test feature on its platform that lets users choose whether they would like tosee the like-countson Instagram posts or not.

For the uninitiated, Instagramstarted a global testing programfor its users two years back. In this program, the picture-sharing platform started hiding the number of likes on posts for a limited number of users. It was to improve the mental health of the users and reduce the intense competition for “likes”. This becamesomewhat controversialover the recent past as some users did not like the idea and shared strong reactions.

To Hide or Not to Hide?

Earlier this year, while addressing a bug that included more users in the testing program, Instagram chief Adam Mossericame forward to address the topic. Although he said that the idea of hiding likes is“clearly polarizing”, the feature is here to stay.

However, at the time, Mosseri confirmed that they are“looking for a way to bring the idea to people who want it and not to those who don’t”. So now, following these claims, a Facebook spokeswoman reportedly stated that Instagram has recently launched a small global test. In this one, they are letting a few users around the world choose whether to hide the like counter for their own posts or other people’s posts or not.

“We’re testing a new option that lets you decide the experience that’s best for you,”Facebook said in a statement.

The feature is currently rolling out to select users on Instagram. As per reports, it is likely to roll out to global users in the coming weeks. Moreover, apart from Instagram, the feature will be making its way to Facebook too.

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