November 14th, 2023 | Updated on July 28th, 2025
5 Key Takeaways:
- Instagram Testing Read Receipt Disabling
- Pressure-Free Messaging
- Privacy Concerns
- No Official Release Date
- Workarounds for Privacy
Instagram is working on a feature that will allow users to disable read receipts for their direct messages, bringing relief to those who prefer to read messages privately without the pressure of an immediate response.
Currently, when you send a direct message on Instagram, a read receipt is generated to inform you if the recipient has seen your message.
While this can be useful for the sender, it can be intrusive for individuals seeking more privacy in their conversations.
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, Instagram’s parent company, announced the upcoming feature during a Meta Channel event.
He confirmed that the Instagram team is actively testing the option to turn off read receipts in direct messages. However, a specific release date for this feature was not provided.
The need for such a feature arises from various reasons. Some users may wish to read messages at their own pace, without the immediate pressure to respond. Others may consider read receipts an invasion of their privacy.
Currently, there is no official way to disable read receipts in Instagram DMs, although some have resorted to workarounds such as enabling Airplane mode and turning off Wi-Fi.
These methods, however, come with inconveniences like having to log out of the app.
While the exact timeline for the release of this feature remains uncertain, Instagram users can look forward to enjoying more control over their direct message experience and the ability to ignore conversations in peace.
Feature Image Source: Claudio Schwarz
