What Instagram Is Changing

Instagram is introducing a major update to its content feed system with a feature called Your Algorithm. Users can now directly control what they see in the Reels tab instead of relying entirely on automated recommendations.

This change is significant because social media feeds are usually powered by opaque algorithms that decide what users see. With Your Algorithm, Instagram is opening a window into that process and letting users fine-tune their recommendations.

How the Feature Works

The new tool uses artificial intelligence to generate a dashboard showing the topics Instagram believes you’re most interested in based on your recent behavior. Users access this from Reels by tapping an icon in the top right. From there they can:

• See the topics driving recommendations
  • Add interests they want more of
  • Mute topics they want less of

These changes immediately shape what appears in their feed.

Instagram says the goal is to let users tailor content to their evolving interests. Users can even share their customized algorithm topics to their Stories if they want.

Why Instagram Is Making This Change

The social media landscape is competitive. TikTok and other platforms have set high standards for personalization. Instagram’s move responds to criticism that algorithm-driven content can feel impersonal or off-target. Giving users agency helps Instagram make its app more engaging and relevant to individual tastes.

There is also regulatory and cultural pressure for greater transparency in how algorithms work. Instagram’s update is a step toward showing users not just what they see but why they see it.

User Response and What Comes Next

Reactions have been mixed. Some users appreciate having control and transparency. Others worry it could make feeds too tailored and reduce the discovery of new or diverse content.

Instagram has said the feature will expand beyond Reels in the future. The next targets could include Explore and even the Threads platform, where users might be able to tag posts for better personalization.

Impact on Creators and Advertisers

There is also an indirect impact on creators and advertisers. If users fine-tune their feeds, content creators may need to rethink how they reach audiences. Advertisers, too, might find that tailored feeds require different targeting strategies.

In essence, Instagram is balancing user empowerment with the need to keep the platform engaging at scale.