Instagram Now Employs Autoplay But Keeps The Sound Off Until Tapped

One of the biggest complaints that internet users have with regards to autoplay is how startling the loud noises can be. It would seem that Instagram has found a compromise in this regard with its own videos. Now, whenever users come to a page with a video clip, it will automatically play. However, it will do so without audio until the users tap on the sound button.

As Tech Crunch notes, autoplay can either be annoying or helpful. It just depends on the situation. In the case of Instagram users who want to watch a series of video clips, having to tap on the play button every single time can be an inconvenience. That’s likely the reason why Instagram opted to go for a middle-ground approach.

For some context, if the user has not yet come across this new feature, the videos on the social media platform will only play the videos without the sound. Once the sound is activated, this will be the case for all of the videos that the user will watch during that session. After turning off the app, the feature will reset and users will have to tap on the audio button again the next time they use Instagram.

In terms of what Instagram is actually trying to achieve with this new feature that it is just rolling out, it’s basically a great way to balance the experience for users, Engadget reports. It ensures that users won’t have to feel too inconvenienced whenever they browse video clips on the app. At the same time, it won’t put users in the awkward position of their phones suddenly blasting heavy metal rock music in a crowded place.

On the other hand, the feature does also affect video ads, much like on YouTube. Users can turn the audio off during such occasions, but there’s the inconvenience aspect again to point out.