Instagram starts testing new feature that lets you personalize your Reels algorithm

Instagram is introducing a feature called Your algorithm, aimed at giving users more direct control over their content recommendations. This option enables individuals to add or remove specific interests, potentially reducing unwanted posts in their feed based on short-lived or accidental searches.

Currently, Your algorithm is being released in stages and is available only through the Reels interface. The rollout is restricted to English-speaking users at this time. For those selected in the initial testing group, a distinctive button featuring two rulers and two hearts now appears in the top right corner of the Reels screen. Tapping this button brings up a dedicated menu where users can refine their recommended content by adding or removing interest categories.

Given the central role that automated recommendations play in Instagram's and other platforms' content delivery systems, the overall effectiveness and breadth of the new controls remain uncertain. It is not yet clear how much influence this tool will have on the structure of users' feeds or on the underlying recommendation algorithms.