Instagram Experiments with a Private ‘Downvote’ Button for Comments
Instagram is currently testing a new feature that allows users to privately signal when they find a comment unhelpful or irrelevant. This test applies to both feed posts and reels.
Instagram head Adam Mosseri confirmed the experiment in a post on Threads, explaining that the dislike count will remain hidden and no one will know if a user downvotes a comment. Over time, these signals may influence the ranking of comments, pushing less favorable ones lower in the thread.
“Some of you may have noticed a new button next to comments on Instagram. This provides a private way to express dissatisfaction with a comment. I want to clarify: this is just a test—there is no public dislike count, and others won’t see your downvotes. Eventually, we may use this feedback to rank comments differently, with the goal of fostering a more positive conversation,” Mosseri stated.
The test follows speculation from app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi, who first spotted the feature last month. Now, Instagram has confirmed the trial phase.
A Meta spokesperson emphasized that the experiment aims to improve comment quality and provide users with better control over their Instagram experience. “We’re testing a new button next to comments on Reels and Feed posts to allow users to privately express when they find a comment unhelpful. Initially, this test is limited to a small group of users, and we may explore ways to adjust comment visibility based on feedback.”
Platforms like Reddit have long used downvotes to rank comments, prioritizing more relevant discussions. While Instagram’s approach is similar, it remains unclear how much weight these downvotes will carry in shaping the conversation on the platform.
