When an Instagram account transitions from private to public, pending follow requests are automatically approved. Individuals who previously requested to follow the account will immediately become followers without requiring manual acceptance. This shift fundamentally alters the account’s visibility and accessibility.
The decision to make an Instagram account public significantly broadens its reach, allowing anyone on the platform to view content, including posts, stories, and reels, regardless of whether they follow the account. This increased exposure is particularly beneficial for businesses, influencers, and individuals seeking to expand their audience and promote their content more widely. Historically, this functionality has been a key component of Instagram’s growth as a platform for sharing and discovery.