Instagram Tests New Post Metric Display Format
Instagram is testing a new format that shows post metrics for in-feed content with a select group of users. The new format is similar to the previous one, but now includes a count next to the number of likes, comments, and shares.
This is a minor change, but it is likely intended to encourage more user engagement. By prominently displaying post metrics with content that is served in-feed, it can potentially encourage users to take action on the posts, such as reading the comments or sharing them through DMs with their friends for posts that have high comment and share counts, respectively.
In March, Instagram began displaying share counts for Reels, which was also a move to encourage action. With platforms like Instagram constantly looking to increase engagement, especially engagement that is reflective of how people are using their apps, expect more user interface (UI) changes in the future.
