Instagram is developing a long-awaited feature that would allow users to remove themselves from another person’s “Close Friends” list, addressing a privacy concern that has lingered since the feature’s launch in 2018.
Meta confirmed on Friday that the tool is currently in early development and not yet available for public testing. Once rolled out, it would give users greater control over how they interact with private content on the platform.
At present, when someone adds a user to their Close Friends list, that user automatically gains access to private Stories, Reels, and posts — with no option to opt out. The upcoming update is expected to change that dynamic.
How the Feature Is Expected to Work
The internal prototype was first spotted by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, known for uncovering unreleased Meta features. Screenshots shared by Paluzzi show that users opting to leave a Close Friends list will receive a warning before proceeding.
According to the preview, leaving the list will immediately revoke access to that person’s exclusive content. The action cannot be undone by the user; access can only be restored if the original account holder chooses to add them back.
The move aligns Instagram more closely with rivals such as Snapchat, which already allows users to remove themselves from private story lists. While the option may feel awkward in some social contexts, it offers relief for users seeking greater privacy or less content clutter.
Meta Explores New Subscription Models
Separately, Meta is also testing premium subscription bundles that could introduce paid features across Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, as the company looks to diversify its revenue streams while keeping core services free.
Although Meta has not officially announced the full feature set, leaks suggest a premium Instagram tier could include tools such as:
- Unlimited custom audience lists
- Insights into followers who do not follow back
- Anonymous viewing of Stories
Meta is expected to experiment with different bundles before finalising any offering. Taken together, the changes signal a broader push by the company to give users more control over their social experience, while gradually introducing optional paid enhancements.
