Instagram head Adam Mosseri directly addressed and debunked the persistent rumor that the platform is secretly recording users through their phone microphones, stating in a video posted on July 26, 2023, that Instagram does not access microphones when users aren’t actively using features like Reels or Stories.The clarification comes after years of speculation fueled by an orange microphone icon appearing on iOS devices, leading many to believe instagram was constantly listening.
The widespread concern stemmed from users noticing the orange dot-an iOS indicator signaling microphone use-even when not recording or sharing audio content. This sparked theories about surreptitious data collection, raising privacy alarms among Instagram’s two billion monthly active users.Mosseri explained the icon appears as Instagram checks for microphone access before a user initiates a recording feature, and the system doesn’t always clear the indicator immediately, creating the false impression of ongoing surveillance.
“We do not want to access your microphone unless you are using a feature that requires it,” Mosseri stated in the video. He further clarified that Instagram’s code is publicly auditable, and the company would face significant repercussions if found to be secretly recording users. The issue gained traction after a TikTok video by user @justin_fields went viral, showcasing the orange dot and prompting widespread discussion.
mosseri’s response aims to quell anxieties surrounding user privacy and restore trust in the platform. While the clarification addresses the technical reason for the indicator, the incident highlights the growing public awareness and concern regarding data privacy and the potential for misuse of microphone access by social media applications. Instagram’s parent company, Meta, has faced scrutiny over data practices in the past, making clarity and clear communication crucial for maintaining user confidence.
