Facebook to hide number of likes in trial aimed at improving users' wellbeing

Social media giant said the move was backed by anti-bullying and mental health groups

Some Facebook users will soon no longer see the number of likes, reactions and video views on other's posts in a world-first trial aimed at boosting users' wellbeing.

Instead, likes will be private and only visible to the post's author in a change that follows a similar test on Instagram which started in July in Australia. The new Facebook trial, which begins on Friday, will also kick off in Australia.