Unlock Privacy: Instagram Threads' Reply Control

How the Feature Works

The addition of this privacy feature offers Threads users an alternative to switching to a fully private profile. While a fully private profile limits the visibility of posts to only followers and those specifically replied to, this new option allows users to make their profile and use of Threads more private without such a drastic change. On the main "For You" feed, which offers a mix of posts including replies, these replies are already less likely to be surfaced by the algorithm. Now, with the ability to turn off the ability for others to browse your replies on your profile, they become even more difficult to find.

Thread user and reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi was the first to spot this feature. He reported that the option was rolling out to the iOS app. An Instagram spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that the company had recently started testing this with a "small number of people" and had not yet made it publicly available. To check if you have this feature, simply click the "Edit Profile" button on your Threads user profile and scroll down to the option labeled "Show your Replies". By default, it is enabled, but you can easily toggle it off if you prefer.

Other Reply Controls

Threads has not stopped at just this one privacy measure. Previously, the company launched a way to limit who can reply to your posts. Users can choose between allowing anyone to reply, only those they follow, or those they have specifically mentioned. This is similar to the functionality offered by X.

Hiding more personal interactions like replies can have a positive impact on Threads users' engagement. It creates a more comfortable environment for users to interact with content, similar to X's decision to make everyone's Likes private earlier this year. This helps to inform X's recommendations and encourages more active participation.

Benefits and Implications

Allowing users to control the visibility of their replies gives them more agency over their online presence. It allows them to share their thoughts and engage with others without worrying about their replies being widely visible. This can lead to more genuine and meaningful interactions within the Threads community.

From a business perspective, this feature also provides Instagram with an opportunity to enhance user privacy while still maintaining a vibrant social platform. It shows that the company is committed to meeting the evolving needs of its users and providing them with the tools they desire.