Instagram has begun testing two new features—one integrated into Reels and another allowing users to express dislike for comments.
The new Reels feature, called “Locked Reels,” is designed to make viewing more engaging and interactive. It allows creators to restrict access to a video using a passcode, which must be entered to unlock the content.
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Instagram’s official design account, “Instagram Design,” showcased an example of this feature, where the Reel appeared blurred on the feed. Upon tapping it, a message appeared prompting users to enter a passcode. A hint displayed on-screen read: “The first digit is in the description.” Once the correct code was entered, the video—an animation reading “Coming Soon”—was revealed, according to news site Infobae.
So far, Instagram hasn’t clarified whether additional ways to share the passcode—such as through riddles or interactive stories—will be available. However, the possibilities seem promising, especially for content creators looking to offer a unique and exclusive experience to their followers.
This feature offers a powerful tool for creators and brands, enabling them to share exclusive content or teasers for upcoming products or campaigns. For regular users, it’s a fun and novel way to engage with content.
“Dislike” Feature
Instagram has also begun testing a new "Dislike" feature for comments on posts and Reels.
Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri announced the feature on Threads, stating that it gives users a private way to reject or flag inappropriate or negative comments.
The number of dislikes will not be visible publicly, and commenters won’t be notified if their comment receives a dislike.
Over time, these signals may help Instagram reorder comment sections, prioritizing higher-quality comments and reducing the visibility of harmful or spammy ones—ultimately contributing to a more respectful and safer environment.
This feature is similar to the “dislike” function on YouTube, offering a subtle way to give negative feedback without sparking confrontation or negatively impacting creators in a public manner.
According to Infobae, these updates reflect Instagram’s ongoing efforts to provide a richer interactive experience and more private controls for both creators and regular users—striking a balance between entertainment and meaningful engagement.
