Instagram’s Close Friends feature has always been a little awkward. Once you’re added, you’re in there is no questions, no way to exit, no way to control. But that may soon change. According to recent reports, Instagram is developing a feature that could finally allow users to remove themselves from someone else’s Close Friends list. It’s still early, still internal, and very much a rumour but it’s already one of the trending gossip online.

What the Rumoured Feature Looks Like

The internal prototype was first spotted by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, who often reveal features long before public release. His few recent posts suggest that users would be able to leave a Close Friends list voluntarily.

Instagram would reportedly notify users that once they exit:
• They’ll no longer see that person’s Close Friends Stories or posts
• Access won’t return unless the person adds them back

In short, it’s a clean break with no drama notification sent to the other side.

Why This Could Be a Big Deal

Close Friends was meant to feel personal, but not everyone wants that closeness. Some users feel uncomfortable being included, especially when boundaries shift over time.

This update could:
• Give users more command over their social media
• Reduce uncomfortable online interaction
• Make Close Friends feel more willful

Snapchat already offers a related option, so Instagram following the same path here wouldn’t be surprising.

But It’s Still Just a Rumour

Meta has verified the feature exists internally, but it’s not being publicly launched yet. Like many internal pattern but there’s no surety that it will ever launch. Instagram often experiments quietly, then shelves ideas that don’t align with user behaviour or platform goals.

More Changes on the Horizon

Alongside this, Instagram is also reportedly exploring premium subscriptions. These may include:
• Unlimited audience lists
• Insights into non-reciprocal followers
• Anonymous Story viewing

Meta says the goal is flexibility and control, while keeping core features free.

Conclusion: Control Is the New Currency

If released, the Close Friends exit option would represent a big shift users wanting more control but not louder features. Whether or not it launches, the message is clear: social platforms are rethinking privacy, comfort and choice.