Blocking Instagram Reels but not all of Instagram

Feature Requests 👀
#1

I was wondering if you guys could make a feature where you block reels because I like the app but the reels make it to addicting now and it’s started to feel like I am using TikTok.

Only block, reels/ shorts/ tiktoks
#2

Hello, my biggest issue with my screen time is doom scrolling, specifically on instagram. I am in my opal trial now and it helps to be able to block apps, however instagram DMs is how I communicate with 90% of people, and I also enjoy posting on my story, so I don’t want to block that altogether. I wish that I could have access to my own profile/stories/posting abilities, as well as seeing other people’s stories and DM’s… the problem is that when I watch someone’s story and there’s a reel it’s so much harder to control and next thing you know I’m mindlessly scrolling reels for a half hour. Or even resist the ability to click on that tab once in the app. I wish there was a way to block reels only (and ideally explore page too) but have access to the rest of the app… anyway a feature like this would be possible in the near future? Thanks

#3

Hey @Peds,

Sorry for the trouble! I’m afraid we’re not able to break down blocking on this hyper-nuanced level, but we’d certainly like to in the future! That said, I’ve merged your requests into the same thread so other Gems can vote on this, and I’ve passed this suggestion along to our engineers to consider as we continue to upgrade the app. Stay tuned!

All the best,
Team Opal

#4

A way to just block watching reels/ shorts but still be able to post on and message on these apps.

#5

Hi, I don’t think it’s possible to block it within apps. However if you are willing to use it with a browser you could use apps like Social Focus: Hide distractions, Untrap for Youtube, Shorts blocker for YouTube - by Yevhen Tretiakov. They are available on IOS, not sure about Android.

#6

Hey @Charles_Ferguson,

Thanks for reaching out! I’m afraid we’re not able to break down blocking on this hyper-nuanced level, but we’d certainly like to in the future! That said, I’ve merged your requests into the thread on the topic so other Gems can vote on this, and I’ve passed this suggestion along to our engineers to consider as we continue to upgrade the app. Stay tuned!

All the best,
Team Opal