Instagram announced an update for all users this week. Inside, Instagram app users can now see when friends are online via a new green dot you’ll see next to their profile image. You’ll see these dots through various parts of the app, such as your messages inbox and when you share a post from the feed.
Make note, only those who follow each other or have messaged each other within the Instagram app will be sharing their online status. For example, I won’t be able to tell when my favorite Instagram model is online because they refuse to follow me back, even after I shot my best shot to their DMs. It hurts to be rejected, folks.
As for privacy concerns, here is what Instagram says in its post.
You will only see status for friends who follow you or people who you have talked to in Direct. You can easily hide your own status and turn off the ability to see when your friends are active in your settings.
If you’re down with anyone you’re friends with knowing when you’re online, have at it. If you’re still trying to ghost your exes, you may want to have it disabled from inside the settings.