How to Hide Chat on Instagram Live: A Step-by-Step Guide

Instagram Live is a popular feature that allows users to broadcast live videos to their followers in real time. While interacting with viewers through the chat feature can enhance the live experience, there may be instances where you want to hide the chat for various reasons. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to hide chat on Instagram Live, giving you control over the visibility of the chat messages during your live broadcasts.

1. Introduction to Instagram Live

Instagram Live

Instagram Live is a feature that enables users to stream live videos directly to their followers.

It provides an interactive platform where broadcasters can engage with their audience in real time, fostering a sense of connection and community.

2. The Purpose of Hiding Chat on Instagram Live

There may be situations where hiding the chat during an Instagram Live session is desirable.

This could include scenarios where the chat becomes overwhelming, distracting, or if the broadcaster wants to focus solely on the content being presented.

3. Starting an Instagram Live Session

To begin an Instagram Live session, open the Instagram app on your mobile device and tap on the camera icon at the top left corner of the screen.

Swipe to the "Live" option and tap on it to start your live broadcast.

4. Accessing the Chat Settings

Chat Settings

Once your Instagram Live session has started, you will see the chat window on the right side of the screen.

To access the chat settings, swipe the screen to the right. This will reveal a panel with various options.

5. Enabling the "Hide Chat" Option

In the panel of chat settings, you will find the "Hide Chat" option. Tap on it to enable the feature.

When the chat is hidden, viewers will no longer see the chat messages on their screens.

6. Interacting with Viewers

Although the chat is hidden, you can still interact with your viewers. You can respond to comments verbally during the live session or use other features such as stickers, polls, or questions to engage with your audience.

7. Disabling the "Hide Chat" Option

If you wish to show the chat again during your Instagram Live session, you can easily disable the "Hide Chat" option. Swipe the screen to the right to access the chat settings panel and tap on the "Hide Chat" option to toggle it off.

8. Managing Chat Moderation

While the chat is hidden, it's important to note that you still have the ability to manage chat moderation. This includes removing or blocking inappropriate comments or users.

To do this, swipe the screen to the right and tap on the three dots (...) at the top of the chat panel to access moderation options.

9. Utilizing Additional Broadcasting Features

Instagram Live offers various additional features to enhance your live broadcasts. These include adding guests to your live session, applying filters or effects, or sharing your screen.

Familiarize yourself with these features to make your live sessions more engaging and interactive.

Hiding the chat on Instagram Live can be useful in certain situations where the focus needs to be on the content being presented or to manage overwhelming chat interactions. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can easily hide and unhide the chat during your live broadcasts on Instagram. Remember to utilize other interactive features to engage with your audience and create an enjoyable live experience.