Instagram has introduced a new feature on its Reels platform, allowing users to see which videos their friends have liked or commented on.
The feature, which has been gradually rolled out to users worldwide in recent weeks, displays small profile bubbles in the top-right corner of the Reels playback screen, showing interactions from friends.
By tapping on these bubbles, users can view a list of posts their friends have engaged with, along with a reply bar for easier responses and participation in ongoing conversations.
Instagram states that the goal of the update is to foster greater social interaction and engagement among users on the platform.
The company highlighted the feature as part of its broader effort to promote creativity and connection by encouraging users to interact more within the app.
However, the update has sparked mixed reactions.
Some critics have voiced concerns that it could lead to uncomfortable situations if friends engage with sensitive or controversial content, potentially raising privacy issues.
There are also fears that in some relationships, a “like” could be misinterpreted, creating tension.
Instagram reassured users that not all interactions will be shared.
The platform’s algorithms are designed to carefully select which likes and comments will be visible to others, in order to prevent the exposure of potentially embarrassing or harmful content.
