Open Post: Instagram Is Testing Hiding “Likes” In The US. Hawt Or Nawt?

November 12, 2019
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Magical place kindest people !
A post shared by Shawn Mendes (@shawnmendes) on Nov 4, 2019 at 10:32pm PST

Gay life and Instagram have become inextricably woven together, with Insta not only serving as a showcase of status and appearance, but also doubling as a dating app for an increasing number of its users. So naturally gays are shooketh over the news that this week Instagram will experiment with hiding the "likes" accumulated from some (roughly 700) 'Grammers. Users will still be able to see the likes they get, but they will be hidden from the rest of the world. The company's CEO stated:

The idea is to depressurize Instagram, make it less of a competition.

The test already rolled out in other countries, and the desired result on Instagram's part is that uninhibited users - without fear of not garnering adequate likes on a pic - will post more frequently. Leading to increased revenue from ads. But at what cost to gays whose self-worth hinges on amassing double taps? At. What. Cost. I. Ask. You.

The anxiety surrounding Instagram engagement has reached existential frequencies, and personally I will not miss the likes if the powers the be at Instagram decide to pull the plug on them for good following this test. While I'd love to say that likes are arbitrary, they've become a socially agreed upon vetting mechanism. A critical mass of likes on a shirtless thirst trap pic signifies fuckability. In fact likes validate not just our appearance but also all of our life choices - where we vacation, what our pets look like, what restaurants we frequent - and it's all become just a bit much for moi.

However I know that gays who are slaying the Instagram game - especially when it comes to dating - have something to lose here. Are you one of those Instagays? I think all of our readers would love to hear everyone's thoughts regarding Instagram's like-hiding trial, so PLEASE let us know your thoughts in the comments! Hawt or Nawt. If no one engages with my Open Post everyone will think I'm unpopular!!