Did Instagram remove likes permanently?

The Engagement Experiment

Rumors are spreading that Instagram has permanently removed public like counts in a major 2026 platform update.

The Confusion

Test rollouts: Instagram has been testing hidden likes in various markets for years.

Account-level settings: Users can already hide likes on their posts, which some mistake for platform-wide removal.

Algorithm changes: Updates to the algorithm are being confused with like removal.

What's Actually Happening

Instagram has not removed likes permanently. Users can still see like counts on their own posts and can choose to hide them. The platform continues testing different engagement display options, but likes remain a core feature.