Instagram is currently testing a new feature that will allow users to downvote or dislike comments.
This new feature will let users express disapproval or indicate that a comment is irrelevant.
According to multiple sources, the feature is available for both Feed posts and Reels.
Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, clarified that the number of dislikes will not be visible, and users won’t know if someone has disliked their comment.
However, over time, dislikes will help determine the ranking of comments.
Mosseri stated, “Some of you may have seen that we’re testing a new button next to comments on Instagram – this gives people a private way to signal that they don’t feel good about that particular comment.”
He further added, “I want to be clear: this is a test, there is no dislike count, nor will anyone know if you tap the button. Eventually, we may integrate this signal into comment rankings to push disliked comments lower. Our hope is that this might help make Instagram comments friendlier.”
As soon as users noticed the feature, mixed reactions surfaced, with more criticism than praise.
One user wrote, “Creating yet another way to spread negativity for more engagement is lame as hell.”
Another commented, “It’s like they want us to argue and hate each other even more.”
A third user expressed, “I dislike this feature… It will make people feel sad or insecure about their posts & comments. People shouldn’t be given this option.”
Another user added, “Mental illness will rise. This is not a good idea,” while someone else remarked, “They clearly don’t care about kids’ mental health.”
Meanwhile, Meta claims that the test is aimed at improving the comment section by helping surface more relevant and meaningful discussions.
