Instagram, the popular social media platform, has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to leave comments on Instagram Stories. This update provides a more public way for users to engage with each other, expanding beyond the previous method of sending private messages in response to Stories.
Unlike the previous system where replies to Stories were only visible to the content poster, the addition of comments now enables interactions to be seen by a wider audience. However, there is a restriction on who can leave comments – only individuals who follow each other on the platform have the ability to comment on Stories.
Similar to the ephemeral nature of Stories, the comments on them will also disappear after 24 hours. Users have the option to toggle comments on or off for each Story they share, giving them control over their interactions. It remains unclear whether comments will be saved or archived once a Story expires, prompting further clarification from Instagram.
Instagram has been continuously adding new features to its platform, particularly on surfaces like Reels and Stories, to boost user engagement. This move suggests that the company aims to create more opportunities for users to connect with their friends, moving beyond simply scrolling through content casually.
Apart from introducing comments on Stories, Instagram has also rolled out other enhancements such as disappearing “notes” on grid posts and Reels. These notes, similar to comments, only last for three days and can be customized to be viewed by mutual followers or a selected group of close friends. Furthermore, the platform has revamped the appearance of likes on posts, showcasing them in the form of floating hearts, similar to the design used for disappearing notes.
Instagram’s latest update to allow comments on Stories signifies a shift towards fostering more meaningful interactions among users. With its emphasis on temporary engagements and enhanced features like disappearing notes, the platform is evolving to prioritize friend-to-friend interactions, creating a more engaging and dynamic social media experience for its users.