Instagram is developing a feature that will allow users to remove themselves from someone’s “Close Friends” list. The company confirmed this to TechCrunch, noting the feature is still in the early stages and is not being tested publicly yet.
The platform’s Close Friends feature lets users share Stories, Reels, and posts with a select group, rather than their entire follower base. Since its launch in 2018, users have not been able to remove themselves from another person’s Close Friends list.
This internal prototype was first discovered by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, who specializes in finding unreleased features during development. According to a shared screenshot, Meta will warn users that if they leave a Close Friends list, they will no longer see that person’s Close Friends content unless they are added back.
While some might feel offended if others leave their list, this feature would likely be welcomed by those who prefer not to be included on certain people’s lists. It is worth noting that Snapchat, a key competitor, already allows users to remove themselves from someone’s private story, which is a similar function.
As with any internal prototype, it is unknown when or if Instagram plans to release this feature publicly.
Beyond the Close Friends update, Instagram is working on other new features. Meta stated earlier this week that it plans to test new subscriptions giving people access to exclusive features on Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
While Meta did not share specific details, Paluzzi indicated a premium Instagram subscription may allow users to create unlimited audience lists, see which followers do not follow them back, and view Stories anonymously. The company’s goal with these subscriptions is to provide special features and more control over sharing and connection, while keeping core experiences free. Meta plans to test a variety of subscription features, with each app offering a distinct set of exclusive features.