Instagram is currently undertaking internal tests on a feature that will hide the number of likes a post gets from public view.
According to an article by TechCrunch, the new feature – discovered by a US-based researcher and contributor to the publication – will hide the exact number of likes a post receives. However, each user will still be able to see their own like count on a post, as well a list of who has given it the thumbs up, or heart, in this case (a key point for those who monetise their Instagram page).
Like counts, which to some are seen as a measure of popularity and status, is one aspect of Instagram that has come under fire for having a negative impact on users' mental health. The new feature appears to be an attempt by the social media giant to try and eliminate this effect.
Instagram confirmed the test to TechCrunch but said that it's only an internal prototype.
“We’re not testing this at the moment,” a spokesperson told the publication. “But exploring ways to reduce pressure on Instagram is something we’re always thinking about.
“We want your followers to focus on what you share, not how many likes your posts get. During this test, only the person who shares a post will see the total number of likes it gets.”
