On Wednesday, Instagram launched a new feature powered by artificial intelligence that allows users to view and adjust the algorithms that shape their Reels feed, describing it as a major step toward more user control. The Meta-owned app offers the 'Your Algorithm' feature, accessible via an icon in the top-right corner of Reels. It shows topics Instagram believes users are interested in, based on their viewing history. In a post, the company said, 'Users can now directly tell the platform which topics they want to see more or less of, with recommendations adjusting in real time accordingly.' Social media platforms have faced increasing pressure from regulators and users alike to provide more transparency into algorithmic content curation, which critics say can promote harmful content. However, companies generally view algorithms as their 'secret sauce' that sets their platform apart and have often resisted greater transparency. 'Instagram has always been a place to dive into your interests and connect with friends,' the company added in its post. 'As your interests evolve over time, we want to give you more effective ways to control what you see.' The feature provides users with a summary of their top interests and allows them to type in specific topics to focus on. The company said the feature rolled out Wednesday in the U.S. and will be available globally in English 'soon'.
