In today’s digital age, privacy and control over one’s online presence are paramount. Disabling the “Active Now” feature on Instagram allows you to manage when others see you as online, enhancing your privacy and reducing unnecessary interactions. This guide will walk you through the simple steps needed to turn off the Instagram Active Now feature effectively.

Step 1: Open the Instagram App

Begin by locating the Instagram application on your device and tap on it to open. Ensure you are logged into your account, as the following steps will direct you to your settings. If you are not logged in, enter your credentials to access your profile.

Step 2: Access Your Profile

Once in the app, navigate to your profile by tapping on your profile picture, which you can find in the bottom right corner of the screen. This action will take you to your personal Instagram profile.

Step 3: Open the Menu

Look for the three horizontal lines located in the top right corner of the screen. Tapping on these lines will open a menu containing various options for managing your account.

Step 4: Select Settings and Privacy

From the menu that appears, tap on Settings and Privacy. This section contains all the settings related to your account, including privacy options, notifications, and more.

Step 5: Modify Messages and Story Replies Settings

Scroll down the Settings menu until you find the option labeled Messages and story replies. Tap on it to access further settings regarding your messaging preferences and visibility.

Step 6: Disable Activity Status

In the Messages and story replies section, look for the setting denoted as Show Activity Status. Tap on this option to manage your activity visibility on Instagram.

Step 7: Toggle the Activity Status Off

You will see a switch next to the Show Activity Status option. Toggle this switch to the left. This action will disable the visibility of your active status, meaning others will no longer see when you are online or recently active.

Extra Tips & Common Issues

While turning off the Active Now feature is straightforward, here are some additional tips:

  • Occasionally check the Activity Status setting to ensure it’s still off, especially after app updates.
  • If you don’t see the Show Activity Status option, make sure your app is updated to the latest version.
  • Know that turning off your activity status also prevents you from seeing other users’ activity statuses.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can reclaim your privacy on Instagram by turning off the Active Now feature. This ensures that your online availability remains under your control. Embrace a more private Instagram experience, and feel free to explore other features that enhance your social media management.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I turn on active status again?

To reactivate the feature, follow the same steps and toggle the switch for Show Activity Status to the right.

Why can’t I see the Activity Status option?

If you cannot find the option, check if your app is updated, as features may vary with different versions of the app.

Will turning off my Activity Status affect my friends?

Yes, by disabling your Activity Status, you will also be unable to view your friends’ active statuses. The feature works both ways.