The Instagram algorithm work based on a set of dynamic rules, prioritizing posts that are relevant, engaging, and user-focused. Key indicators of an algorithm-friendly post include a noticeable increase in likes, comments, shares, or a sudden Increase in views.
In 2025, the algorithm has evolved significantly—but likes still play a crucial role, as they reflect direct user approval and engagement. High like counts often signal to the algorithm that the content is worth promoting further.
While many Indian start-ups prefer to buy Instagram likes for rapid growth, today’s focus is different. In this article, we’ll explore how the Instagram algorithm works in 2025 But are likes still relevant? Let’s decode the truth.
How Instagram algorithm work for Likes
The Instagram algorithm prioritizes work with high engagement. Metrics such as likes, shares, comments, and saves play a key role in pushing content to the Explore page. The first 30 to 60 minutes after posting are crucial – if a post gets strong engagement early on, the algorithm considers it valuable and promotes it to a wider audience.
How Instagram Algorithm Work In 2025
Content Ranking Factors
Engagement rate is currently the highest ranking factor. Because, the Instagram algorithm looks at the work/posts on which you are getting likes, comments and shares, so it reaches the content to more people.
User activity and interests
On Instagram, the user shows interest only in those posts which are fulfilling his need, for example, if you are looking for some scientific information and find a post related to it, then you like to connect with it immediately.
Post type and format (Reels, Carousels, etc.)
Sometimes the post type matters a lot because, the user can get bored with the same type of post every time, formats like Reels, Carousels matter a lot.
Feed vs. Explore vs. Reels Algorithm
Instagram works on many algorithms for Feed vs. Explore vs. Reels so that you get a different experience in every feed.
As the feed algorithm prioritizes accounts you’ve interacted with more than others, you’ll see these accounts appear higher up in your feed.
The Explore algorithm shows accounts you’ve seen more in the past or enjoy watching more often, giving you more content to share.
The Reels algorithm focuses on short videos, taking into account factors like your watch time or which Reels you’ve liked or commented on.
Do Likes Still Matter in 2025?
Yes, Instagram likes are still important. While it is true that the way the Instagram algorithm works has changed and upgraded, the importance of likes hasn’t diminished. Likes influence people to get early visibility, trigger more impressions, and increase the chances of a content being shown on the Explore page. They are still quite strong because, even if you have more likes, many people start engaging with the content just by looking at the number.
Where Likes Don’t Matter Much
Likes hold little value on Instagram when the content quality is poor. Even with a high number of likes, the algorithm prioritizes quality over quantity. While engagement is essential, relying solely on likes and comments without shares reduces your content’s impact. In professional or B2B niches, likes matter even less—saves and shares carry far more weight in determining a post’s performance and reach.
How More Likes Can Help You Grow Faster
More likes on Instagram posts help build trust and social proof. Many users are naturally drawn to content with high engagement, often liking a post simply because it already has a lot of likes. The Instagram algorithm works on increased credibility encouraging new users to follow your account.
A strong like count also appeals to brands looking for collaborations, as it signals influence and authenticity. Additionally, the Instagram algorithm is now prioritizing hashtags more, increasing your chances of reaching a wider audience.
How to Get More Likes – Fast & Safely
Use trending audios and hashtags
To effectively use trending audios in your posts, go to the “Trending section” within the Instagram music library and then select popular tracks. Now you can use trending audios in any of your posts. Search for relevant hashtags or use a hashtag generator to find trending hashtags.
Post at the right time
Instagram algorithm suggests posting at the best time to get more reach and likes as users are most active at this time and the chances of engaging with the post increase.
Create relatable content
Consistently share niche-relevant content like reels, quotes, and carousels to drive higher engagement through likes, comments, and saves. Listen to your audience and ask them what kind of content they want so that you can adapt your content accordingly.
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Common Myths About Instagram Likes in 2025
Myth 1: Likes don’t matter anymore.
Reality: Likes on Instagram remain crucial for boosting impressions, engaging audiences, and enhancing visibility and reach.
Myth 2: Buying likes gets you shadowbanned.
Reality: Only fake or bot-generated likes can put your Instagram account at risk. However, buying high-quality, real Indian Instagram likes is generally safe and effective.
Myth 3: More likes mean guaranteed success.
Reality: While likes are important for engagement and visibility, they are just one part of the equation. Ultimately, the quality of your content matters the most.
Conclusion
The way Instagram algorithm works has changed and gotten smarter, but likes still matter. However, creators and businesses shouldn’t rely solely on likes. Quality content remains the foundation for success. While organic growth is essential, it can be slow – combining organic efforts with paid strategies is a smart, fast way to achieve impressive results.
FAQs about Instagram Algorithm Work
Q1. Do likes still matter on Instagram in 2025?
Yes, likes still matter on Instagram, but their importance has evolved. While likes contribute to engagement metrics, the algorithm now places greater value on actions like saves, shares, and video watch time. These deeper interactions signal stronger user interest and play a more significant role in content visibility.
Q2. What signals does the Instagram algorithm use to rank content in 2025?
The Instagram algorithm focuses more on users’ activity and their dwell time. If many users are doing activities like commenting, liking, and saving your post, it assumes the post is valuable and of good quality which is very important to rank content, especially these metrics are very important in 2025.
Q3. How does the Instagram algorithm work in 2025?
The Instagram algorithm places a lot of importance on quality content, user relevance, and behavior even in 2025. If your content solves a user’s query, the post gets a lot of reach.
Q4. How can I increase reach under the 2025 Instagram algorithm?
The way the Instagram algorithm works hasn’t changed even in 2025. If you focus on creating shareable, saveable content, and use reels, carousels, and stories consistently, there are high chances that your posts will reach new users quickly.
Q5. Do likes help posts go viral in 2025?
Yes, likes help posts go viral. However, just having likes is not enough in 2025. Users should interact with your posts and the posts should be of quality. Also, don’t stick to one format, but focus on carousels and reels as well.
Q6. What matters more than likes in 2025?
Likes matter but their presence alone is not enough to rank content, the Instagram algorithm monitors every activity of the user on the content and sharing, saving and spending time on the content matters more than likes.
Q7. Does Instagram still hide like counts in 2025?
Yes, in many places Instagram has also allowed that you can hide likes to reduce social pressure.
Q8. Is buying likes still effective in 2025?
Yes, buying Instagram likes in India remains effective in 2025, as competition on social media has significantly increased. To align with the Instagram algorithm, it’s important to show strong engagement—starting with high like counts. More likes not only boost social proof but also positively influence other key metrics, helping improve your overall engagement rate.
