Earlier this year, news that Instagram will start testing hiding Like counts in select countries set off a wave of different reactions from users. For others, it is a positive step towards encouraging self-expression on the platform. But some people were not fans of this new function.
Is It Bye for Good for the Platform's 'Digital Currency'?
It has long been established that the Like function is the digital currency of social networking sites. The update still allows users to see who Liked their own posts, but viewers will only see the names of a few mutual friends who Liked the post. To check out the total Like counts, users will have to view the Likers list and do a manual count.
Essentially, Instagram is carrying out this Like count experiment to encourage people to actually share content they care about rather than posting something for the purpose of gaining traction, going viral, or being liked-literally.
"We want your followers to focus on what you share, not how many likes your posts get. During this test, only you will be able to see the total number of likes on your posts," the company said on a prompt that appeared on the feed of select users.
SEE ALSO: Instagram Is Really Considering Hiding Like Counts
While the change was initially rolled out to Canada, Instagram confirmed that they will expand the experiment to countries beyond Australia, Brazil, Canada, Ireland, Italy, and New Zealand.
"If you're in the test, you'll no longer see the total number of likes and views on photos and videos posted to Feed unless they're your own. While the feedback from early testing has been positive, this is a fundamental change to Instagram, and so we're continuing our test to learn more from our global community," the social media giant said in a statement to TechCrunch.
What About Influencers?
Many influencers with enough instagram followers rely on their Likers and count to earn money from their sponsored content or paid promotions. So, in essence, this update does not bode well for them. Instagram was quick to give their stance on this matter.
"We understand that this is important for many creators, and while this test is in exploratory stages, we are thinking through ways for them to communicate value to their brand partners."
How to Unhide Instagram Likes
If you are an influencer, who needs to capture a screenshot of your posts' Like counts or a user who merely's feeling petty or competitive, this Chrome extension by Socialinsider can unhide Instagram likes on your browser.
All you have to do download the extension to see your Like and comment counts again.
"Instagram has stopped displaying the number of likes and comments in some areas - that makes the life of a Social Media person very complicated, so we thought about lending a hand," it says on the description.
Note that the extension does not show the Like counts on the mobile app but useful all the same if you need to know whether your content is gaining traction.
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