Instagram is evaluating an unreleased feature that would allow premium subscribers to browse the platform without interacting with content or leaving some of the usual engagement signals.
Code hints and early interface mockups uncovered by mobile developer and reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi suggest that Meta is testing an option tentatively referred to as “read-only mode” for its paid tier.
According to screenshots shared on social media, activating the setting would prevent users from liking posts, leaving comments, sending direct messages, following new accounts or viewing stories.
By disabling these engagement features, the proposed tool would limit some of the interaction signals users typically generate while browsing profiles and posts.
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The concept has surfaced as a potential addition for Instagram Plus accounts and has prompted discussion about privacy and digital safety.
A Meta spokesperson clarified that the functionality is currently limited to early internal evaluation and is not being tested publicly.
Technology companies frequently prototype experimental code and interface designs internally, many of which never progress to public rollouts or beta testing.
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The idea of a more private browsing mode on a mainstream social media platform has nevertheless drawn attention from technology observers.
A feature that allows users to browse without interacting could appeal to people seeking a more private or low-engagement experience. At the same time, questions could arise about how such a mode would affect safety and moderation systems that rely on user activity and interaction signals.
Instagram has not provided additional details about whether safety measures are being developed for the experimental feature or whether it will advance beyond internal testing.
As social media platforms look for new ways to add value to paid subscriptions, the proposed feature highlights the challenge of balancing privacy preferences with safety and moderation requirements.