Instagram is reportedly working on a much-needed privacy upgrade that could finally give users more control over their social boundaries. According to a report, the Meta-owned platform is developing a feature that would allow users to remove themselves from another person’s Close Friends list, quietly and without sending a notification.
If rolled out, the update would let users opt out of seeing private Stories, Reels, and posts shared with a restricted audience, something that hasn’t been possible since Close Friends was first introduced.
Instagram Close Friends: What’s Changing?
The Close Friends feature was designed to help users share content with a select group rather than their entire follower base. However, until now, only the creator had control over who stayed on that list. If someone added you, there was no way to leave short of muting or unfollowing them entirely.
That could soon change.
Reports suggest Instagram is testing a tool that allows users to voluntarily exit someone’s Close Friends list, giving them the freedom to decide what kind of private content they want to see and from whom.
How the New Feature Could Work
While the feature is still in early development, screenshots shared by an internal tester on X hint at how it might function:
- Users will see a warning prompt before leaving a Close Friends list
- Once removed, they’ll no longer see private Stories or posts from that user
- They can only regain access if the creator adds them again manually
- The person who added them won’t be notified
Meta has confirmed to TechCrunch that the feature is real but not yet available for public testing.
Why This Feature Actually Matters
Being added to someone’s Close Friends list isn’t always comfortable. For some users, it can feel awkward, intrusive, or socially pressuring especially if the content shared is overly personal.
This update could:
- Help users set clear digital boundaries
- Reduce social discomfort without confrontation
- Give people more control over what content appears in their feed
Interestingly, Snapchat already offers a similar option, allowing users to opt out of private Stories making Instagram’s move feel long overdue.
Meta’s Bigger Plan: Paid Subscriptions Across Platforms
Alongside privacy updates, Meta is also reportedly experimenting with paid subscription plans for Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
According to reports, a premium Instagram subscription could include features such as:
- Unlimited audience lists
- Insights into followers who don’t follow back
- Viewing Stories anonymously
Meta says these subscriptions aim to offer advanced tools and deeper control, while keeping the core experience free for all users. Each app may roll out its own exclusive features as part of different subscription bundles.
What to Expect Next
There’s no official timeline yet, and Meta has made it clear that these features are still being tested internally. However, if launched, the ability to leave a Close Friends list could mark a significant shift in how Instagram approaches user consent and privacy.
For users who value control over their social experience, this could be one of Instagram’s most quietly powerful updates yet.