Instagram to Introduce User-Controlled 'Close Friends' List Management

02.02.2026

Instagram is in the process of developing an innovative feature that will empower users to autonomously remove themselves from another user's 'Close Friends' list. This development was confirmed by Meta, although the feature remains in its nascent stage and is not available for public testing yet.

The 'Close Friends' feature on Instagram facilitates the sharing of Stories, Reels, and posts with a select group, distinct from the user's entire follower base. Since its inception in 2018, the functionality has not allowed users to opt out of someone else’s list. This is about to change with the introduction of the new feature, which was initially identified by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, known for uncovering unreleased features in development.

According to a screenshot shared by Paluzzi, Instagram will notify users that by leaving a 'Close Friends' list, they will lose access to that person's 'Close Friends' content unless re-added. This adjustment could be beneficial for users who prefer not to be included in certain lists, despite potential social implications. Notably, Snapchat, a key competitor, already offers a similar feature, allowing users to remove themselves from private stories.

Instagram is also exploring the introduction of premium subscription models across its platforms, including Facebook and WhatsApp. Although specific details about these subscriptions remain undisclosed, features may include creating unlimited audience lists, identifying followers who do not reciprocate the follow, and viewing Stories invisibly. Meta aims to offer users enhanced control and exclusive functionalities, while maintaining free core experiences.

Tags: social media Instagram Meta User Experience New Features

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