Want to see hidden Instagram likes? Try this Chrome extension

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.

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.

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.

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.