Instagram is currently trialing a new feature that could offer creators more granular insights into user engagement with carousel posts. According to reports, the platform is testing a system that attributes like counts to individual images within a carousel, based on which frame was visible when a user tapped the like button.
The new functionality, highlighted by industry observers such as Lindsey Gamble and Adina Jipa, displays a like count on each image in a carousel, aiming to indicate which specific frames are resonating most with viewers. However, the data may not always be precise – likes could be based on the overall post rather than a single frame. Still, a significant disparity in likes between images could provide useful signals about audience preferences.
Carousel posts, which allow users to share multiple images or videos in a single post, are already a key format for boosting engagement on Instagram. Adam Mosseri, Instagram’s head, previously explained that carousel posts tend to generate more reach due to the multi-image format encouraging more interactions. Additionally, if a viewer scrolls past without engaging, Instagram often presents them with the next image in the carousel as a second chance to capture attention.
By adding frame-specific like data, Instagram appears to be exploring ways to help creators better understand which visuals drive interactions within a post. While the feature is still in testing and its official rollout remains uncertain, it could eventually offer marketers and content creators new insights to refine their visual strategies and optimize post performance on the platform.
