Instagram Rolls Out Public Comments for Stories: Boosting Engagement While Preserving Privacy

Instagram Introduces Public Comments on Stories, Enhancing User Interaction

Instagram, the popular photo and video-sharing platform, is rolling out a new feature that allows users to leave public comments on Stories. This significant update transforms the way users interact with Story content, shifting from private responses to more visible engagement.

Previously, reactions to Stories were limited to private messages sent directly to the content creator. The new commenting system opens up a public space for discussion, potentially increasing user interaction and engagement on the platform.

However, the feature comes with certain restrictions. Only mutual followers will have the ability to comment on Stories, maintaining a level of privacy control for users. Additionally, comments on Stories will be temporary, lasting up to 24 hours in line with the ephemeral nature of Story content.

Instagram is giving users control over this new feature, allowing them to toggle comments on or off for their Stories. This provides flexibility for those who prefer to maintain a more private Story experience.

It remains unclear whether comments will be archived after a Story expires. Instagram has been contacted for clarification on this aspect of the new feature.

This update is part of Instagram’s ongoing efforts to enhance user engagement on its platform, particularly within Reels and Stories. Recent additions include disappearing “notes” on grid posts and Reels, which expire after three days and allow users to control their visibility. These notes are overlaid on posts, highlighting interactions with friends.

In a related update, Instagram announced that some likes will now appear as floating hearts, mirroring the appearance of likes on disappearing notes. This visual change adds a new dynamic to the way users perceive engagement on the platform.

As Instagram continues to evolve its features, the introduction of public comments on Stories marks a significant shift in how users can interact with temporary content, potentially fostering more active and visible community engagement on the platform.