Who helps you turn life’s lemons into lemonade? Often, it’s our best friends—our emotional anchors and most prominent supporters. Instagram’s Close Friends feature allows you to celebrate this bond by sharing moments with a select group of your closest pals.
You’re not alone if you’re wondering why you can’t access Instagram’s Close Friends feature. Many users face this issue. In this guide, we’ll explore why this might be happening and how you can address it.
Why Doesn’t My Instagram Account Have Close Friends?
You can use Instagram’s Close Friends feature without enabling it; it’s automatically available on your account. If your list appears empty, you need to add friends to it.
Here’s how to add people to your Close Friends list:
- Open the Instagram app and ensure you’re logged in.
- Tap on “Your Story” at the top left of the screen.
- Tap the Gear icon in the upper right corner.
- On the next page, click on the “Story” option.
- Navigate to the “Close Friends” tab and select the (number) people option.
- Choose individuals to add to your Close Friends list by scrolling or using the search bar to find their names.
- Tap “Done” to confirm.
Tip: Instagram does not notify others when you edit your Close Friends list; only you can view it. Feel free to update your list as needed!
If you can’t access these options, your Instagram account might not support the Close Friends feature. We’ll explore possible reasons and solutions to help you activate the feature.
Your Instagram needs an update.
In 2018, about eight years after the app’s launch, Instagram introduced the Close Friends feature. Initially, some users couldn’t access this feature due to its trial status.
When the feature was rolled out to all users, it became available through app updates. An app update might resolve the issue if you cannot see it in 2023.
Here’s a quick way to check for updates:
- Open the Google Play Store or App Store on your device.
- Search for Instagram and select it from the results.
- Tap “Update” to install the latest version if an update is available.
After updating, open Instagram to check if the Close Friends feature is visible.
Have you tried to log off Instagram?
Sometimes, logging out of the app temporarily can resolve issues. This gives your account a chance to reset and address any glitches.
Try logging out for a few minutes, then logging back in to check if the Close Friends feature reappears. If it doesn’t, you may need to explore the alternative solutions listed below.
It’s high time you reinstall the app.
If you’re experiencing issues with the Close Friends list, reinstalling the Instagram app might help resolve the problem. This common troubleshooting step can often fix app glitches.
To uninstall Instagram, you have two options:
From your phone’s menu: Find the Instagram app, press and hold it, then tap “Uninstall” at the top of the screen to remove it.
Via app stores: Search for Instagram in the Google Play Store or App Store, select the app, and choose the “Uninstall” option. Confirm the action to delete the app.
After uninstalling, reinstall Instagram by searching for it in your app store and tapping “Install.” Check if the Close Friends feature reappears once the app is reinstalled.
Is your Instagram server causing the issue?
Instagram servers occasionally experience outages, causing the app to stop functioning temporarily. When this happens, users often turn to Twitter to check if #Instagramdown is trending, indicating a widespread issue.
If Instagram is down, there’s no immediate fix for accessing your Close Friends list. The best action is to wait until the app is back up and running normally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Close Friends feature on Instagram?
The Close Friends feature allows you to share stories with a select group of people rather than all your followers. It helps you keep certain content more private and tailored to a specific audience.
How do I update my Instagram app to get the Close Friends feature?
To update Instagram, go to the Google Play Store or App Store, search for Instagram, and tap “Update” if an update is available.
What should I do if updating the app doesn’t resolve the issue?
If updating the app doesn’t help, try logging out and logging back in or reinstalling the app. Additionally, look for trends on Twitter or check Instagram’s status updates to check for a server outage.
Can I use the Close Friends feature if it’s not showing up?
If the feature isn’t available, you won’t be able to use it until Instagram resolves the issue or rolls out the feature to your account.
Is there a way to check if Instagram is down?
You can check social media platforms like Twitter for hashtags like #Instagramdown to see if others are experiencing similar issues.
What should I do if I suspect my account has a specific problem?
If none of the general fixes work, consider contacting Instagram’s support team for assistance. They can provide guidance specific to your account issue.
How can I know if the Close Friends feature is available for my account?
Once available, the Close Friends option should appear in your Instagram story settings. If you don’t see it after updating and troubleshooting, it may not be available to your account.
Conclusion
If your Instagram account doesn’t have the Close Friends feature, it could be due to various reasons, such as an outdated app, temporary account issues, or regional availability. Start by updating your app and try logging out and back in.
Reinstalling the app can also help resolve glitches. If the feature still doesn’t appear, check for any server outages or contact Instagram support for assistance. Following these steps, you can typically restore access to the Close Friends feature and enjoy sharing more personalized content with your inner circle..
