Instagram lets you take back control of your news feed

Instagram users who are unhappy with the content recommended to them can now reset the algorithm to start from scratch. To do this, users will need to access Instagram settings and go to the section What is visible Then Suggested content to activate the reset function (not yet available in France at the time of writing).

The algorithm forgets everything it has learned about the user’s habits and can start from scratch. Instagram also recommends checking the people you follow, as well as the subjects of the advertisements, to prevent the algorithm from reproducing the same recommendations.

Instagram’s recommendation will be renewed over time

« Your recommendations will begin to personalize again over time, showing new content based on the content and accounts you interact with », Explains the social network. “ When resetting, you will also have the option to review the accounts you follow and unfollow those who share content you no longer want to see. »

In addition to the algorithm reset, Meta, Instagram’s parent company, published a new page in its transparency center that describes how Instagram and Facebook prevent teens from seeing inappropriate content. Meta says it removes images and videos that violate its rules and hides content from teens if it is deemed inappropriate. Finally, there are types of content that Instagram doesn’t recommend to anyone, even if it doesn’t break the rules, which means you have to intentionally seek it out.

A protective measure for teenagers, but not only

The ability to reset the algorithm is primarily intended to help teens stop seeing inappropriate content. However, Instagram also says that long-time users may appreciate this feature, especially if their interests have changed or if they are unhappy with the site’s recommendations.

The algorithm reset is just the latest move by Instagram to protect teens from inappropriate content. The changes began with the rollout of teen accounts, which have an increased set of protections and restrictions different from adult accounts. Since then, Instagram has tweaked the feature, including adding more safety tools to prevent sextortion, as well as protections to prevent adults from accessing a teen’s direct messages.

Meta is also working on using AI to detect when people are lying about their age, so they can be migrated to the appropriate account type.

These changes come during a year when other programs and sites are also working to strengthen protections for teens. Roblox has repeatedly changed its platform to prohibit certain features and games from its younger players, while Fortnite gives parents more control over time limits.