Instagram’s new feature to prioritise and limit interactions to only close friends

To enhance user control and foster more meaningful interactions, Instagram is introducing a new feature that allows users to limit interactions to only those on their "Close Friends" list. This optional feature will act as a virtual velvet rope, effectively doing away with the noise from followers outside the user’s inner circle. While other followers can still interact with the content, their comments, messages, and tags will be hidden from both the user and the wider Instagram community.

Initially aimed at protecting teens from bullying and harassment, the feature is now available to all users, enabling them to create a more intimate and controlled social media experience. This update extends the Close Friends functionality beyond Stories and Notes to include feed posts and Reels​

You can create a list of close friends within your followers. Posts shared with this setting are only visible to those on your close friends list. People outside your close friends list won't be able to comment, direct message you, reply to your stories, or tag or mention you in theirs on those posts. Their interactions will be hidden from you and everyone else.

This feature allows you to create a more private space on Instagram to share with a select group. This functionality is particularly aimed at:

• Younger Users: It provides a safer space for teens or young adults to interact with their inner circle online.
• Curated Content: You can share more personal content without worrying about a wider audience.
• Managing Online Boundaries: It empowers users to set boundaries and control who interacts with their content.

Overall, this new feature provides more control over your Instagram experience and fosters closer connections with your chosen circle.