Hide Numbers Focus Toggle Step 1 Solution Assessment

Problem Statement

Users need an optional focus mode that hides counts, dates, likes, and similar numbers while preserving access for admins and power users. Source: thread-20260826025809-1722b84b, submitted 2026-08-26T02:58:09Z.

Option A: Add a local JS toggle that hides nonessential numbers

Pros:

  • Fast and reversible.

  • No server-side identity or preference storage needed.

  • Good first test of the experience.

Cons:

  • Preferences may not follow users across browsers.

  • Needs careful exclusions for moderation and accessibility.

Option B: Add a persisted per-user display preference

Pros:

  • Stable across devices for signed-in users.

  • Can support role-specific defaults.

  • Cleaner long-term preference model.

Cons:

  • Requires user preference storage decisions.

  • Larger product and data contract.

Option C: Remove counts globally

Pros:

  • Strongest focus-oriented design.

  • Simplifies the UI.

Cons:

  • Ignores users who need numbers.

  • Risky for moderation, admin, and auditing workflows.

Recommendation

Recommend Option A.

Brief justification:

  • A reversible local toggle tests the focus-mode value while keeping admin and moderation signals available.