Instagram Tests Strict 3-Hashtag Limit: A Major Shift in Content Discovery May Be Coming
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Instagram appears to be quietly testing a surprising shift
in how posts reach new audiences. Several users have started noticing a prompt
that blocks them from adding more than three hashtags to a post — a major
reduction from the long-standing 30-hashtag allowance. While Instagram has not
formally announced the change, early reports suggest the company may be
experimenting with a new discovery strategy before rolling it out more widely.
A New Approach to Hashtags on Instagram
For years, hashtags have played a central role in helping
creators and brands expand their reach. They’re used to categorize content,
fuel search results, and enhance visibility in Explore, Reels, and topic-based
feeds.
But things may be shifting.
According to a report from DroidApp, some users are
receiving a notification stating that only three hashtags can be added
to a post. Attempts to exceed that number trigger a message reminding them of
the new limit.
Interestingly, this change isn't appearing for everyone.
Many accounts still have access to the traditional 30-hashtag limit, suggesting
that Instagram is running a limited A/B test to study user behavior and
algorithmic impact.
Why Instagram Might Restrict Hashtags
Meta hasn’t commented publicly on the experiment, but there
are several possible reasons behind the move:
1. Cleaner Content Discovery
Fewer but more relevant hashtags could make search results
and recommendations more accurate.
2. Curbing Hashtag Spam
Many users overload posts with unrelated or trending tags,
diluting authenticity and harming overall content quality.
3. Improved Algorithm Performance
A simplified tagging system may help the algorithm better
understand the context and intent of a post.
Another Feature in Testing: Customizable Algorithm Controls
This isn’t the only change Instagram is exploring. Recently,
Instagram head Adam Mosseri shared that the platform is testing a new tool
allowing users to fine-tune their recommendation topics.
Where This Feature Lives
A new section called “Your Algorithm” in Settings
gives users the ability to view and manage the topics influencing their feed.
Examples shown include categories such as:
- Fashion
Week
- Stand-up
Comedy
- Luxury
Watches
- Music
Artists
- Concert
Clips
This feature is initially testing with Reels and will later
expand to Explore.
What Happens Next?
Since Instagram hasn’t confirmed the hashtag limitation
publicly, it’s likely still in the early testing phase. If the results are
positive, a platform-wide rollout could follow — which may significantly change
how creators craft their captions and optimize reach.
Until then, creators should keep an eye out for changes and
experiment with more thoughtful, focused hashtag strategies.
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#InstaAlgorithm #HashtagLimit #MetaNews #DigitalTrends #InstaReels #TechUpdates
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