INSTAGRAM is testing a new feature that could see you get likes on your Stories.
The like count will be private so only you will see it and only select users will be involved in the initial test.
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Meta, which owns Instagram, has said the new feature is not broadly available but a few select people across the globe will be able to see it.
It also explained that there aren’t any plans to make the Stories like count visible.
This will be good news for people who already feel the pressure of getting Instagram likes.
Instagram has previously brought out features to tackle this pressure like the “Hide like count feature” on posts.
A Meta spokesperson told TechCrunch: “We’re always working on ways to help people connect with those they care about.
“We’re now testing Story Likes, a way for people to react to stories that only the story author can see.”
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Many Instagram users selected for the trial have taken a screenshot of a message they received on Instagram.
It states: “Testing likes on stories. During this test, you may receive likes on your stories.”
Some users have tweeted queries about why Instagram would be trialling this feature when everyone can already react to Instagram Stories in other ways.
You can currently use the laughing, surprised, heart eyes, teary-eyed, clap, fire, celebration and 100% emoji to react to someone’s Story.
You can also send them a direct message relating to the Story.
The reactions you receive aren’t visible to other users just like any Story likes you receive won’t be.
It’s unclear whether Story likes will take off for regular users but it could be used as another way for influencers to measure engagement.
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