Instagram has announced that they will be starting to hide like counts from USA users, the new change will hide the like count from the public. Maybe this is a good change for people who always compare their like counts versus others’, but I don’t really see how this is better for the platform’s longevity and for Content Creators that are making free content for a living.
Instagram Is Taking Away Your Likes!
Key takeaways
- Little impact on general users. As far as I know it doesn't change the algorithm (from 1:00).
- Likes are KPIs for creators. Likes, comments and views gauge performance, like a salesperson's numbers (from 2:00).
- Expect more requests to comment. Comments become the only public engagement signal (from 3:00).
- Long term, creators move platforms. Their followers follow them (from 4:00).
- Newcomers get hurt most. They'll have a hard time showing demand for their content (from 5:00).
FAQ
Does hiding Instagram likes affect regular users?
I don't think it has much impact on people who just browse or rarely post, since as far as I know it doesn't change the algorithm.
Who is hurt most when Instagram hides likes?
Creators just starting out. Their follower counts are smaller, so they'll have a harder time showing demand for their content.
Why might Instagram hide likes?
I don't know if it was to make a better platform or to get companies to spend more on Instagram ads instead of creators, but I don't think it's the right solution.
Keep reading
Questions? Ask me in the comments on the video on YouTube.