Are you tired of Instagram's hidden like count feature and want to see those likes again? You're not alone! Many users find the change disruptive and miss the social feedback likes provide. This guide provides fail-proof methods to show likes on your Instagram feed, regaining the familiar experience you prefer.
Understanding Instagram's Hide Likes Feature
Before diving into how to turn off hidden likes, let's understand why Instagram introduced this feature in the first place. Instagram's stated goal was to reduce social pressure and improve mental wellbeing among its users. The idea was that hiding likes would encourage people to focus on the content itself, rather than the number of likes it receives.
However, many users found this change frustrating, preferring the transparent social validation that likes provide. Fortunately, there's a way to revert to the previous setting (depending on your account type and region).
How to Turn Off Hide Likes on Instagram: A Step-by-Step Guide
Unfortunately, there isn't a universal "on/off" switch to completely disable the feature for everyone. Instagram's rollout was phased, and availability varies. However, here are the key steps to check and potentially reinstate the visible likes count:
Method 1: Checking Your Account Settings (Most Common Method)
This is the first place to look. While not guaranteed to work for everyone, it's the most common method:
- Open the Instagram app: Launch the Instagram application on your phone.
- Go to your profile: Tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner.
- Access Settings: Tap the three horizontal lines in the top right corner (or the hamburger menu). Then, select "Settings."
- Navigate to Account: Look for "Account" within the settings menu and tap it.
- Look for "Posts": Find the section related to your posts. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your app version.
- Check for Like Count Visibility: This is where you'll find the option to manage like visibility. Look for a setting related to "Likes" or "Like Counts". If available, toggle the switch to enable visible likes.
Important Note: If this setting isn't present, it's because Instagram hasn't enabled this option in your region or for your account type.
Method 2: Update Your Instagram App
An outdated app might lack the latest features, including options related to like visibility. Make sure you have the most recent version installed:
- Open your app store: Go to the Google Play Store (Android) or the App Store (iOS).
- Search for Instagram: Search for the Instagram app.
- Update the app: If an update is available, tap the "Update" button. Restart the app after updating and check the settings again (following Method 1).
Method 3: Check Your Region's Instagram Settings
Instagram's rollout of the hidden likes feature was gradual, and some regions may still have the option to choose. This method is less likely to succeed but is worth checking:
- Use a VPN (if you are comfortable with using one): A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can temporarily change your IP address, making it appear as if you're accessing Instagram from a different region. (Caution: Use a reputable VPN and only use it for this purpose, as privacy concerns are associated with VPN usage.)
- Connect to a different region: Connect your VPN to a server in a region where likes are typically visible.
- Check Instagram settings again: After connecting to the VPN, repeat Method 1 to see if the setting appears.
What if None of These Methods Work?
If you've tried all the methods above and the option to show likes remains unavailable, unfortunately, there's nothing more you can directly do. Instagram's decision on the visibility of likes is based on its own internal rollout plans and policies.
Keep checking back: Instagram sometimes updates its features. It's possible that future app updates or policy changes may give you the ability to turn off hidden likes in the future.
This guide provides the most reliable methods to attempt to reverse Instagram's hidden likes feature. Remember to always be mindful of your online privacy and security when using apps and services like VPNs.
