● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 negative
Instagram explores 'read-only mode' for Plus subscribers, raising privacy concerns
Key points
- Instagram is developing an internal 'read-only mode'.
- The mode prevents liking, commenting, messaging, following, or story viewing.
- It is intended for potential Instagram Plus subscribers.
- The feature is an internal exploration and not externally tested.
Internal Development of Read-Only Mode
Instagram is internally developing a new feature called 'read-only mode', as discovered by leaker and reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi. Screenshots indicate this mode would allow users to browse the platform without interacting, meaning they cannot like, comment, message, follow, or view stories.
Intended for Plus Subscribers
The uncovered images suggest this 'read-only mode' is being considered for Instagram Plus accounts. This would enable subscribers to view content without leaving any digital trace of their activity on the social network.
Current Status and Concerns
An Instagram spokesperson confirmed that 'read-only mode' is an internal exploration and not undergoing external testing. The company regularly develops features that may not be released. However, the potential for this reduced visibility to be used for stalking or other harmful purposes has been noted, and internal teams are expected to address these safety concerns before any potential launch.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
The daily brief
One email each morning: the day's tech stories, clustered across outlets and summarized. No account needed.
One email a day. Unsubscribe in one click, any time.
Today's brief
Spend a few minutes, get the whole day. Every topic's top stories in one hands-free rundown — listen, watch, or read the transcript.
▶ Play today's brief
New every morning, and the back catalogue is archived by date.
Reporting from
Instagram is internally developing a 'read-only mode' feature for potential Plus subscribers, which would allow users to browse without liking, commenting, messaging, following, or viewing stories. This feature raises concerns about its potential use for stalking or other nefarious activities due to the lack of a digital footprint.