It's been... oh... just about a day since Instagram started rolling out Instagram Stories — a new feature that lets you compile as many moments from your day as you'd like into a fun slideshow — so it's safe to say we're all sufficiently addicted by now (hey, we're easily amused). However, there is one question currently plaguing Insta fans: Why can't I comment on Instagram stories? 'Cause, c'mon, it seems like the least you could do after your BFF went through all the trouble of memorializing your birthday in a hilarious story is leave a comment telling her how rad she really is. Plus, let's be real: If you create a seriously legit story, you don't hate the accompanying praise hands and complimentary comments that feed your Insta ego.
When Instagram announced the new feature on Aug. 2, they indirectly addressed this issue, explaining in a blog post, "With Instagram Stories, you don’t have to worry about overposting. Instead, you can share as much as you want throughout the day — with as much creativity as you want. You can bring your story to life in new ways with text and drawing tools. The photos and videos will disappear after 24 hours and won’t appear on your profile grid or in feed." Furthermore, continues the post, "If you want to comment on something you see, you can tap and send a private message to that person on Instagram Direct. Unlike regular posts, there are no likes or public comments."
Did you catch that? There are no likes or public comments — but you can react to an Instagram story in a different way: Via private messages.
Here's how it works. When you open Instagram, you'll see stories from people you follow in a bar at the top of your feed. If this sounds familiar, you must be a Snapchat user — Instagram's Stories bar is very similar to the highlighted Stories at the top of the page when you swipe right from the camera screen on Snapchat. In any event, let's say you tap on one of those Instagram profile photos, that person's story comes up, and you just can't keep your "Lolz" to yourself. In order to share your warm fuzzies with your friend, you'll need to tap and send a private message to that person through Instagram Direct. Here are specific directions on how to do that. You're welcome. (You can also limit who's able to message you in response to your stories, too. Just FYI.)
As to why the decision was made to forego public comments, we'll all just have to stay tuned — Bustle has reached out to Instagram and will update you if and when we hear back. Until then, though, don't let the lack of commenting capabilities keep you from sharing your feel-goods with fellow Insta users when you stumble across stories you like. It may not be visible for the whole world to see, but I suspect that's kind of the point. Instagram is offering users an added level of functionality and, if so desired, privacy to the already popular social messaging app. Here's to yet another way to share the moments that make life so dreamy — without having to worry about being trolled, no less!
Images: Instagram
