Step 1: Update your Instagram app
Make sure you have the latest version of the Instagram app installed on your device. Regular updates often introduce new features, including options related to privacy and notifications. To check for updates on your device:
- For iOS users: Open the App Store, tap on ‘Updates’ at the bottom-right, and look for Instagram in the list. If an update is available, tap the ‘Update’ button.
- For Android users: Open the Google Play Store, tap on the three lines in the top-left corner, select ‘My apps & games’, and look for Instagram in the ‘Updates’ tab. If an update is available, tap the ‘Update’ button next to it.
Step 2: Access your Instagram settings
Once your Instagram app is up to date, launch the application and log in to your account. Now, follow the below steps to access your Instagram settings:
- Tap on the profile icon at the bottom-right of the screen, which will take you to your profile page.
- Look for the three lines in the top-right corner of the screen and tap on them to open the menu options.
- Scroll down and find ‘Settings’ near the bottom of the list. Tap on it to proceed to the settings menu.
Step 3: Disable read receipts
To remove the ‘Seen’ indicator, you need to disable the read receipts feature. Here’s how to do it:
- In the settings menu, find ‘Privacy’ and tap on it.
- Locate the ‘Read Receipts’ option and toggle it off. This will disable the ‘Seen’ indicator for all your direct messages.
Step 4: Test the changes
Now that you have disabled read receipts, it’s time to test if the ‘Seen’ indicator is truly gone. Ask a friend to send you a direct message, then open the message and check if they can see the indicator. If not, you have successfully removed the ‘Seen’ indicator from your Instagram account.
Final Words
Removing the ‘Seen’ indicator on Instagram can help protect your privacy and avoid any pressure to respond immediately to messages. By following this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you can easily disable the read receipts feature and enjoy a more discreet Instagram experience.
Remember, keeping your Instagram app updated is crucial to access the latest privacy options and security enhancements, so always ensure you have the most recent version installed.