By Kayla DeKraker
Instagram is currently testing a new feature that may increase creators’ engagement with followers.
The feature, called locked reels, prompt users to enter a passcode on top of a blurred image in order to view the content. This could boost interaction, especially for influencers.
TechCrunch explained, “For example, a creator may lock a reel with the hint, ‘my birthday’ or ‘my dog’s name’ in order to share exclusive content with loyal followers.”
Engagement rate is important to influencers, especially those trying to gain a large enough following to make a profit. Sprout Social defines it as “a metric that tells you how people are interacting with your content on the platform. It considers details such as your follower count along with interactions such as Likes, comments, saves and shares. This metric helps you gauge how well your content resonates with your target audience.”
The locked reels are currently being tested on Instagram’s Design account. When or if it’ll come into play is unknown.
There are some potential downsides, though, as it could turn people away from viewing posts. Some followers may not be interested in taking the time to figure out the code word, which would prevent creators from receiving desired engagement.
Related: Instagram’s New Update is a Victory for Teen Safety
Tech Crunch noted that the new feature is similar to Instagram’s already existing “reveal” feature where users can post a hidden photo only accessible when the poster is messaged.
Instagram explains, “When you use the Reveal sticker on your Instagram Story, you can create a hint about what the blurry image is for your followers. When someone responds to your story, the image will be revealed to them.”
Although not currently on the table, Instagram should consider using the locked reels concept as a safety measure to protect young users from questionable content. There are several similar tools in circulation, but they could possibly expand on this in efforts to protect children even further.
Instagram has announced several other new features as of late, mainly regarding child safety.
Last year, it launched Teen Accounts, which has received updates this month. The company added a blur feature to DMs for young users.
New York Family reported, “Teens under 16 will need parental approval to turn off a feature that blurs images that may contain nudity or inappropriate content in their DMs. This update will help prevent teens from accidentally seeing harmful content while messaging with friends.”
As social media platforms continue to expand their tools, they also need to consider how best to protect young users from bad actors and exploitation.
Read Next: Instagram to Launch ‘Nudity Protection’ Feature to Protect Teens
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