Instagram, the popular social media platform, has confirmed that it is testing a new feature that enables users to downvote or dislike comments. The feature, which appears as a button next to comments on both Feed posts and Reels, allows users to signal that they don't like a particular comment or find it irrelevant.

The confirmation came from Instagram head Adam Mosseri, who took to Threads to explain the feature. According to Mosseri, the downvote button is a private way for users to signal their disapproval, and it won't show a dislike count. Moreover, no one will know if a user has disliked a comment. The ultimate goal is to integrate this signal into comments ranking, which would move disliked comments lower down in the comments section.

This test is part of Instagram's efforts to improve the quality of the comment section. As a company spokesperson explained, "We're working on ways to help people better control their Instagram experience and what they're seeing on the app." The feature is currently being tested with a small group of users, and it's unclear when it will be rolled out more widely.

The concept of downvoting comments is not new, as Reddit has had a similar mechanism in place for years. Reddit uses upvotes and downvotes to sort comments, and it's unclear if Instagram will give similar weight to its downvote feature. However, Instagram's approach is distinct in that it's focusing on private signals rather than public displays of dislike.

The move is likely a response to user concerns about the quality of comments on the platform. By giving users a way to privately signal their disapproval, Instagram hopes to create a more friendly and relevant comment section. It's a delicate balance, as the platform needs to ensure that users feel comfortable expressing themselves while also maintaining a positive and respectful environment.

As Instagram continues to test and refine this feature, it will be interesting to see how users respond. Will the downvote button lead to a more curated comment section, or will it create new challenges for users and moderators alike? Only time will tell, but for now, it's clear that Instagram is committed to improving the user experience and creating a more positive online community.