Instagram targets engagement with comments overhaul
Instagram is looking to boost user engagement by giving its system of posting comments an overhaul, principally by handing individuals the ability to like and disable comments for the first time.
The move aims to achieve the twin goal of rewarding positive commentary, which adds to the platforms worth, whilst eliminating abusive remarks which can be a turn-off for members.
Rolling out over the coming weeks the update will see a heart icon appear below individual comments which can be clicked to ‘like’ the sentiment of the message. This will be augmented by the ability to turn off unwanted remarks at the click of a button.
In a blog post Instagram co-founder Kevin Systrom said: “Comments are where the majority of conversation happens on Instagram. While comments are largely positive, they're not always kind or welcome."
Additional measures include allowing users to remove followers from their private accounts rather than merely block them – an act which will not be reported to the user who has been removed. A further change takes the shape of an anonymous reporting mechanism which allows people to flag posts which are suggestive of an individual seeking to engage in self harm.
Instagram has unveiled a raft of new features in recent months including a Snapchat-style disappearing message format.