Instagram is testing a new feature that allows users’ friends to see the Reels they have liked. This update, which is currently in beta testing, aims to make content discovery more interactive and social. By showing which Reels are popular within your friend group, Instagram hopes to encourage deeper engagement and foster conversations about shared interests.
The feature functions similarly to the “activity” tabs that were popular on platforms like Twitter in the past. It essentially creates a more transparent view of your interactions, showing your likes on Reels to the people in your network. While this can make content discovery more communal, it also raises concerns about privacy and control.
Addressing Privacy Concerns
Acknowledging potential backlash, Instagram plans to include customization options that allow users to control what is visible. Early reports suggest that users will be able to limit or completely hide the visibility of their liked Reels. This aligns with Instagram’s ongoing efforts to provide more personalized privacy settings, as seen with its “Close Friends” feature for Stories and the ability to limit post visibility to specific audiences.
The move is part of Instagram’s broader strategy to keep its platform engaging by integrating new social elements. This comes as the platform competes with TikTok, which continues to dominate short-form video content. By introducing features that blend entertainment with a social layer, Instagram is trying to position itself as more than just a content-sharing platform.
User Feedback and Rollout Plans
As the feature is still in beta, Instagram is likely gauging user reactions to decide its final form. Feedback from testers could lead to adjustments in how visible likes are or whether the feature remains optional. If the rollout is successful, the new functionality could be available globally in the coming months. However, the exact timeline for the full release has not yet been confirmed .
With Instagram constantly evolving to retain its user base, this feature reflects its push to encourage interaction without alienating users who value their privacy. Whether it will strike the right balance between connectivity and control remains to be seen. For now, users can look forward to a potentially richer experience for discovering and discussing Reels with friends.