Instagram will test giving people more control over where they see like counts on posts.
A new Instagram feature designed to give users control on whether they see how many ‘likes’ a post has gotten or not is due to be tested in an effort to improve users mental health.
The feature that allows users the option to hide the counter builds on an initial test that hid the public like count for certain users around the world.
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The previous testing was rolled out with some countries, like Australia, noted for getting used to not seeing how many likes other people got.
This time, however, the new test will allow users the control – rather than having a blanket ban.
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The move is an effort to improve users mental health according to representatives at Facebook who released a statement on the upcoming trials.
They also revealed that a similar experience will be tested for Facebook.
A Facebook company spokesperson said: “We’re testing this on Instagram to start, but we’re also exploring a similar experience for Facebook.
“We will learn from this new small test and have more to share soon.”
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It hasn’t been made clear who might be involved in the test or how long it will be trailed for, however a small number of users will be asked if they want to opt into the test.
Instagram is aiming to test the feature globally so everyone should keep an eye on their account notifications.
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Speaking in The Sun Instagram chief Adam Mosseri previously “We want to make it a less pressurised environment.
“We want people to worry a little bit less about how many likes they are getting on Instagram and spend a bit more time interacting with the people that they care about.”
The move has in the past been controversial with many users happy with the way the app currently operates.
