• Source:JND
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How many times have you experienced that—you're chatting with someone on the phone about a product or perhaps browsing it on the Internet, and the next thing you know, an ad for that pops up on Instagram? For years, individuals have thought that apps such as Instagram and Facebook are eavesdropping on you without your permission through your phone's microphone. It is unsettling to feel as if this is a breach of privacy in the making.

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But is that actually the case? According to Instagram chief Adam Mosseri, the answer is no. In a recent video, he directly addressed the long-standing suspicion, saying, “We do not listen to you. We do not use the phone’s microphone to eavesdrop on you.”

The fear isn’t exactly baseless. After all, Meta (formerly Facebook) has a chequered past when it comes to handling user data, including multiple controversies around privacy and tracking. So scepticism has always followed its platforms.

Still, Mosseri tried to put things in perspective. He explained that if Instagram really were recording private conversations, people would notice. “It would be a gross violation of privacy, it would drain your phone’s battery, and you’d see the microphone indicator light up.” And he has a point—modern versions of iOS and Android now force apps to show indicators whenever the microphone, camera, or location services are being used.

So why do you still get ads that feel eerily relevant? Mosseri says it comes down to how digital advertising works.Apps such as Instagram do not require to listen in because they already know a lot about your interests from your online activity—sites you visit, things you search for, and what you interact with. Advertisers use that information to sell products you will likely be interested in.

Interestingly, Mosseri dismissed the idea that these hyper-relevant ads are proof of surveillance. Sometimes, he said, it just boils down to chance: “Coincidence, it happens.”
Short video has taken center stage on the platform, and now the firm is piloting a "Reels-first" experience in India. The product is launching to a small cohort of users but will roll out more widely in the months ahead. In addition to popularity, Reels also offer a strong opportunity for Instagram to deliver ads and maintain revenue streams.

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In short, your phone’s mic isn’t spying on you—but your clicks, views, and searches? Those definitely are.