Instagram’s Take On Toxic Comments with New ‘Dislike Button’ Feature
In an effort to provide users with more control over their Instagram experience, the platform is experimenting with a much-anticipated feature: the “dislike button.” Announced by Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri in a recent post on the social media site Threads, the feature is designed to allow users to privately signal their displeasure with specific comments. While it will be introduced as a test with a limited group of users, it’s clear that Instagram is aiming to enhance comment quality and improve user experience.
What the ‘Dislike Button’ Means for Users
For many years, social media platforms have offered the option to “like” content, but Instagram’s new feature will provide users with the opposite—an easy way to signal when a comment doesn’t sit well with them. Positioned next to the existing like button, this downward-facing arrow will serve as the “dislike” button, enabling people to privately express their disapproval.
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Importantly, Mosseri emphasized that there will be no public “dislike count,” so no one will be able to see how many times a comment has been disliked. This maintains a level of privacy, ensuring that no one is publicly shamed or singled out based on negative feedback. The goal, according to Mosseri, is not to create a space for bullying or harassment, but to offer a means of self-regulation and ensure that conversations remain positive and productive.
Impact on Comment Rankings
One of the more interesting aspects of this test is Instagram‘s potential plans to use the dislike data to influence how comments are ranked. As Mosseri explained, comments that receive dislikes may eventually be moved lower in the comment section, making them less visible to other users. The idea is to help highlight more relevant and positive discussions, and move undesirable or irrelevant comments out of sight.
While this feature is currently in the testing phase, it signals a shift in how social platforms are rethinking comment moderation. With social media becoming an increasingly influential part of our daily lives, Instagram is likely hoping this new tool will help foster a healthier online environment.
The Bigger Picture: User Control and Experience
Instagram is also working on other features aimed at giving users more control over their experience on the app. The dislike button is just one part of a broader strategy to improve user well-being, reduce online toxicity, and encourage meaningful engagement.
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Christine Pai, an Instagram spokesperson, explained that the dislike button is being tested to give users a private way to express their disapproval of irrelevant or offensive comments. The feature will start with a small user group to gauge its effectiveness. If successful, Instagram may use the feedback to refine the feature. Eventually, the platform could integrate it into its comment ranking system. This could result in disliked comments being pushed lower to improve the overall user experience.
The Future of Social Media Interactions
The dislike button has already sparked a range of reactions among users, some excited about the opportunity to filter negative comments, while others fear it could promote even more divisiveness. However, Instagram’s transparency in making the feature anonymous and private could mitigate such concerns, keeping the experience civil.
As Instagram continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the dislike button will influence the platform’s comment culture. For now, users will get a sneak peek at how the feature works, with hopes that it will create a more positive environment for online discourse. Whether or not it will become a permanent fixture on the platform, one thing is clear: Instagram is committed to enhancing user control over their social media experience.
