Want to see hidden Instagram likes? Try this Chrome extension
What's the story
A few weeks back, Facebook-owned Instagram took the drastic step of hiding likes for select users of the platform all over the world. The move was aimed at protecting people from the problems of social media but some didn't like that idea. Now, for this curious group, there is a workaround to see the hidden likes - a Chrome extension. Here's all about it.
Extension
"The Return of the Likes" by Socialinsider
When Instagram started hiding likes, users of the platform could only see the names of people who liked or commented on a post shared by someone, not the total number. However, 'The Return of the Likes' extension, developed by Socialinsider, brings the exact like/comment count back and shows it on the top-right corner of a post opened on Instagram for the web.
Caveat
You have to switch to using Instagram on Chrome
While the extension ends Instagram's unnecessary parenting and lets anyone see the number of likes and comments on posts, it is imperative to note that this is only a solution for Chrome. There is no way to run this program on iOS/Android devices, which essentially means you'd have to switch to using Instagram on Chrome for using this technique and seeing likes permanently.
Information
Alternatively, you could keep it as a temporary solution
If you are more inclined towards using Instagram on phone, you could keep the extension installed for certain cases, where you might want to see likes/comments count on a particular post. In those situations, you could use the post's link and open it on Chrome.
Safety
Is this extension safe to use?
Chrome extensions can be laced with malware to target the computers of users, their data, or confidential login credentials. But, in this case, the extension appears harmless. Instagram has not commented on the program or if it violates any of its policies, but Socialinsider, which is a social media analytics company, says that no data is sent from Instagram to its servers.
Reason
Instagram started hiding likes to prevent users from depression, anxiety
Instagram started hiding likes to tackle the problem of low self-esteem, envy, and depression stemming from social media usage. Many reports had highlighted that people often spiral into depression and self-pity after witnessing the attention given to others' posts, which the photo-sharing giant hoped to change through hidden likes/comments. However, many believe, instead of forcing hidden likes, it should've made it an optional choice.