Highlights

• Instagram rolls out a test feature allowing users to hide read receipts in direct messages.
• The feature mirrors WhatsApp’s long-standing option to disable read confirmations.
• Steps to access the test feature include going to ‘Privacy and safety’ settings in the Instagram DM section.
• A new option to share comments directly to Stories has also been introduced by Instagram.

Instagram, the popular photo-sharing platform, is currently trialling a feature that would allow users to discreetly read direct messages (DMs) without sending a read receipt.

This option, reminiscent of a similar functionality on WhatsApp, provides users with increased privacy, allowing them to read messages at their convenience without notifying the sender.

How to Access the New Read Receipt Feature

As of now, this is a limited test, and the feature isn’t available to all users. However, if you’re interested in checking whether you’re part of the test group, here’s how you can find out:

• Launch the Instagram app and navigate to your DM inbox.
• Choose a conversation and click on the contact’s name at the top of the chat.
• Browse through the options and select ‘Privacy and safety.’
• If included in the test, you’ll see an option to disable read receipts.

Instagram has not provided a timeline for when this feature might become widely accessible, but historical trends suggest that successful tests are often integrated into the platform.

New Feature for Sharing Comments in Stories

Apart from tweaking DM privacy settings, Instagram has also introduced the ability to share comments on Stories.

This new addition enhances interaction by allowing users to highlight and discuss public comments within their Stories, promoting community engagement.

Anticipation for Official Release

While the official release date for the read receipt feature remains unannounced, anticipation grows as users await broader implementation.

Instagram is known for its user-driven enhancements, and this potential update reflects a growing demand for personal space and privacy within social media interactions.

FAQs

Q1: How can Instagram users access the new read receipt privacy feature?

A1: Users can check if they have access to the feature by going to their Instagram DMs, tapping on a contact’s name, and looking for the ‘Privacy and safety’ option. If they are part of the test group, they will find an option to turn off read receipts there.

Q2: Will all Instagram users be able to turn off read receipts for DMs?

A2: Currently, the ability to turn off read receipts is in a testing phase and not available to all users. Instagram typically assesses features in trial periods before rolling them out widely, but no official release date has been announced.

Q3: What is the new feature related to sharing comments on Instagram?

A3: Instagram has introduced a feature that lets users share comments directly to their Stories, fostering greater interaction. This allows for public comments to become part of a user’s story, encouraging community discussions.

Q4: Why is Instagram implementing a feature to hide read receipts?

A4: Instagram is likely testing this feature in response to user feedback requesting more control over their privacy. The ability to read a message without sending a read receipt gives users more discretion over their communication.

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