Instagram will now hide like counts in the United States

Instagram will begin hiding like counts in the United States after originally testing the change in Japan, New Zealand, Canada and a few other countries earlier this year.

In a report by Wired on Friday, the company confirmed that a few users in the US will no longer see like counts on Instagram posts as part of its effort to create a more stress-free social media space.

Like Facebook and YouTube, Instagram believes that social media scorecards such as like and follower counts can contribute to anxiety and depression amongst users who feel unpopular online.

Hiding like counts on these platforms could promote a healthier space for users to express themselves by removing the need to compete with other users.

The change also forms part of Instagram’s anti-bullying efforts as well, which include a new restrict feature that hides comments from potential bullies on the platform.

According to the company, like counts will disappear for some users in the United States starting this week.

Feature image: Memeburn