Instagram Testing Read Receipts Privacy Feature for Direct Messages

Instagram, owned by Meta, is currently testing a new feature that allows users to turn off read receipts for direct messages (DMs). 

This feature, similar to WhatsApp’s blue and gray ticks, empowers users to decide whether the sender will be informed when a message has been read.

Mark Zuckerberg and Adam Mosseri Announce the Feature:

Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta, and Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, announced their broadcast channels, acknowledging user feedback and introducing the upcoming read receipts option. This feature offers users more control over their privacy on the platform.

 Functionality Similar to WhatsApp’s Read Receipts:

Once read receipts are disabled, the “seen” label will no longer be visible in the chat window, providing users a discreet way to read messages without notifying the sender. This aligns with the functionality of read receipts on WhatsApp.

In the Privacy and Safety settings, users can toggle read receipts on or off under the “Who can see your activity” category. This addition enhances Instagram’s customization options for user preferences.

A Response to User Feedback:

Adam Mosseri highlighted that introducing this feature directly responds to user feedback, indicating Instagram’s commitment to addressing user concerns and enhancing the platform’s user experience.

Beyond read receipts, Meta is actively working on implementing default end-to-end encryption for Messenger by the end of 2023. 

This comprehensive approach to privacy will extend to Instagram DMs, providing users with enhanced security for their direct messages.