Instagram introduces public comments on stories

Instagram has rolled out a new feature allowing users to leave comments on Stories, shifting from the previous method of responding exclusively via direct messages. This update marks a significant change in user interaction with Stories, as comments will now be publicly visible on the Story itself rather than being sent to the original poster's DM inbox.

The feature offers users control over their Stories, enabling them to allow or disable comments for each post. Notably, only mutual followers can leave comments, but any follower can view them if enabled. Maintaining the ephemeral nature of Stories, these comments will disappear after 24 hours.

Commenters' small profile images will appear at the bottom of the Story icon, indicating engagement before users tap to view it. Users can still respond to Stories via DMs if this option is enabled on their account. Additionally, a new functionality allows users to send a DM directly in response to a Story comment by swiping left on the comment text and tapping the DM icon.