Just a few months ago, Instagram delved into testing how their photo and video platform would be without the “likes” counter.
They began testing this in Canada awhile back, and has now expanded to six more countries: Ireland, Italy, Japan, Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand.
The “likes” ban prevents you from seeing the number of likes of other peoples’ photos, while still being able to keep track of your own. Instagram said on twitter yesterday, “We want your friends to focus on the photos and videos you share, not how many likes they get. You can still see your own likes by tapping on the list of people who’ve liked it, but your friends will not be able to see how many likes your post has received.”
We’re looking forward to learning more about how this change might benefit everyone’s experience on Instagram.
— Instagram (@instagram) July 17, 2019
This test has received mixed responses online. Some people are for the eradication of the concept of superficial validation that these likes are imposing, especially on teenagers.
100% FOR THIS!!!! I want my children to grow up in a world where "number of likes" will not affect their sense of self-worth. Thank you, Instagram! https://t.co/T8jLLZT8vg
— Bianca Gonzalez (@iamsuperbianca) July 18, 2019
At VSCO, we have always believed in creation without judgement. Thank you for joining us on this journey! 🎉
— VSCO (@vsco) July 18, 2019
Meanwhile, many are still against the ban, mostly because a lot of jobs and businesses are already dependent on the platform feature. Without it would cause many influencers and businesses to suffer.
what you guys don’t understand is some people use instagram to further their careers. so many companies are unwilling to work with us if we don’t have a certain amount of followers/likes. hiding likes is only harming those looking to get brand deals.
— jules 🕊 (@juIietrm) July 18, 2019
And of course, there’s the majority who just wants the chronological algorithm back.
Instagram: how can we improve our platform?
Us: can we get most recent posts back?
Instagram: how about we take away likes?
Us: but all we want is—
Instagram: NO LIKES— Tone (@anthxnv_) July 18, 2019
https://twitter.com/ZACHSBANITO/status/1151941123742543874?s=20
How did you respond to this news? Do you want those ‘likes’ gone too? Let us know in the comments!
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
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