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Instagram CEO Explains What Happens When You Accidentally Like and Unlike a Post

digital · 2026-08-07

Adam Mosseri, the CEO of Instagram, recently tackled a frequent concern among users regarding accidental likes. In a new Instagram Reel, he clarified that when a user quickly unlikes a post, the in-app notification is typically erased almost instantly. This means that unless the other user checks their activity feed via the heart icon in the top right corner, they are unlikely to notice the like. However, if they have push notifications turned on, there’s a chance that a notification might still reach them, even if the like has been revoked. The situation ultimately hinges on timing—whether the other person is actively using Instagram or glancing at their phone. DemandSage reports that the average American spends 7 hours and 2 minutes on screens, with 41% of teens exceeding 8 hours daily, so the possibility is never entirely absent. While Mosseri's insights clarify Instagram's notification mechanics, they may not completely alleviate user concerns. The article also touches on art collecting and Instagram's influence in the art sector, but the primary focus remains on user behavior on the platform.

Key facts

  • Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri explained what happens when a user accidentally likes and unlikes a post.
  • The in-app notification is deleted almost immediately after unliking.
  • If the other user has push notifications enabled, Instagram cannot always prevent the notification from being sent.
  • Opening a push notification after unliking leads nowhere because the like has already been removed.
  • The likelihood of the other person noticing depends on whether they were checking Instagram or their phone at that moment.
  • DemandSage reports average U.S. screen time is 7 hours and 2 minutes, with 41% of teenagers spending over 8 hours on screens daily.
  • The explanation was shared in an Instagram Reel by Adam Mosseri.
  • The article was published on My Modern Met and includes related articles about art and Instagram.

Entities

Artists

  • Adam Mosseri

Institutions

  • Instagram
  • DemandSage
  • My Modern Met

Locations

  • United States

Sources