Instagram Introduces User Control Over Recommendation Algorithm Instagram is rolling out a new feature that allows users to directly influence the topics its algorithm recommends, following a similar path to TikTok. This new control, named Your Algorithm, is launching initially for the Reels tab with plans to expand to Explore and other parts of the app. The tool is powered by artificial intelligence, reflecting Meta’s broader push to integrate AI across its platforms. The company stated that as user interests change, it aims to provide more meaningful ways to control what appears in feeds. Using AI, users can now view and personalize the topics that shape their Reels, making recommendations feel more tailored. To access and manage the Reels algorithm, users can tap the icon in the upper right corner of the Reels tab, which shows two lines with hearts, to open the Your Algorithm section. This area displays the topics Instagram believes the user is interested in. From there, users can specify which topics they want to see more or less of, and their recommendations will adapt accordingly. The feature includes several key functions. Users can see a summary of their top interests, which Instagram calculates are their most relevant topics. They can also fine-tune their preferences by typing in specific topics they wish to increase or decrease in their feed, with Reels content reflecting those choices. Additionally, users have the option to share their personalized algorithm interests to their Story, allowing friends and followers to see what they are into. This move towards user-controlled algorithms comes as Meta continues to heavily invest in and deploy AI features. However, not all recent AI integrations have been well-received. Just yesterday, some users reported that Instagram was generating sensational and sometimes inaccurate headlines for posts, likely created by a large language model, which sparked criticism. The company’s focus on AI is expected to grow, judging by its recent strategic acquisitions and internal priority shifts away from other projects like the metaverse. The new Your Algorithm feature for Reels is launching today in the United States, with plans to expand to other regions in the future.
