Instagram announces new features to help counter bullying

Instagram is cracking down on bullying with two new features announced earlier today. The company recognizes that it can do more to prevent bullying and actually found one way to do it, at least according to its official statement.

One of the new features announced today is already rolling out for a few days, so many Instagram users should also be able to notice it. The new feature is powered by Instagram's AI (artificial intelligence) and is meant to notify people when their comment that they want to post may be considered offensive.

Even though it doesn't actually prevent people from posting offensive messages on Instagram, at least it gives them the chance to have second thoughts on what they're about to post. Apparently, Instagram tested the feature and the company learned that some people actually decided to undo their comment and post something less hurtful once they had a chance to reflect.

The second new feature will offer Instagram users a new way to protect their account from unwanted interactions. It's called Restrict and it's already being tested by Instagram, so don't look for it on your phone yet.

When you use the upcoming feature to restrict someone, comments on your posts from that person will only be visible to that person. However, you will retain the option to make the comments visible to others if you want. Also, “restricted” people won't be able to see when you're active on Instagram or when you've read their direct messages.

If by any chance you see the new Restrict option on your phone, Instagram might have selected you for the beta program. Unless the company plans to test the new feature internally.