Instagram users across the UK are expressing their frustration after the platform quietly rolled out a controversial new feature that has fundamentally changed how they navigate through posts.
The Unwanted Change That Sparked Outrage
In what appears to be another unannounced experiment by Meta, Instagram has been testing a new 'tap-to-advance' feature that automatically opens the comments section when users tap on the right side of a post. This subtle but significant alteration has disrupted the familiar scrolling experience millions have come to expect.
One London-based user captured the collective frustration perfectly: "If I wanted to see the comments, I would click on the comments button. I don't need Instagram to make that decision for me."
How the New Feature Works
The controversial change operates in a deceptively simple manner:
- Tapping the right side of a post now advances to the next content
- Simultaneously, the comments section automatically expands
- Users must manually close comments to return to normal viewing
- The traditional seamless scrolling experience is interrupted
User Backlash Reaches Boiling Point
Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints from irritated users who feel the change was imposed without consultation or warning. Many have taken to Twitter and Reddit to voice their concerns, with some threatening to reduce their Instagram usage entirely.
"This is exactly the type of change that makes me use the app less," commented one frustrated user from Manchester. "It feels like they're forcing engagement metrics rather than improving user experience."
Meta's Pattern of Silent Rollouts
This isn't the first time Meta has tested features without proper communication. The company frequently conducts A/B testing on various user groups, often leaving people confused when their app experience suddenly changes without explanation.
Industry experts suggest this approach allows companies to gauge real user reactions before committing to permanent changes, but it often comes at the cost of user trust and satisfaction.
What This Means for Instagram's Future
The strong negative reaction highlights the delicate balance social media platforms must maintain when introducing new features. While innovation is necessary to keep platforms fresh and engaging, changes that disrupt core user experience often face significant resistance.
As one tech analyst noted: "When users feel like changes are being forced upon them rather than developed with them, you're likely to see this kind of backlash. The question is whether Meta will listen or push forward regardless."
For now, Instagram users are left wondering whether this feature will become permanent or if their collective voice will be enough to convince Meta to reconsider this particular experiment.
