Instagram announces Your Algorithm feature on Wednesday, giving users unprecedented control over their content recommendations. This AI-powered tool allows people to view and customize the topics they see in their Reels tab. Moreover, the Meta-owned platform describes this as a pioneering move toward greater transparency in social media algorithms.
How does the Feature work?
The new tool appears as an icon with two lines and hearts in the top right corner of the Reels tab. When users tap this icon, they see topics Instagram believes match their interests based on viewing history. Subsequently, they can adjust these preferences in real time.
Instagram’s “Your Algorithm” feature, tested last September for select users, is now launching in the US and will roll out globally in English soon 👀
It shows the interests Instagram has assigned to you from past activity, and you can adjust them by removing or adding topics.. pic.twitter.com/lj60rT5kmc
— ㆅ (@howfxr) December 10, 2025
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| View Interests | Shows topics Instagram thinks you like |
| Add Topics | Type in subjects you want to see more of |
| Remove Topics | Select areas you want to see less of |
| Share Algorithm | Post your interests to your story |
| Real-Time Updates | Feed adjusts immediately based on choices |
Step-by-Step Usage Guide
Using Your Algorithm is straightforward. First, open the Reels tab on Instagram. Next, tap the new icon in the top right corner. Then, review the topics Instagram has identified as your interests. After that, select which topics you want to see more or less content about. Finally, your Reels feed will update according to your preferences.
Additionally, users can share their algorithm settings with followers through Instagram Stories. This feature lets friends see what kind of content interests you.
Availability and Rollout
Currently, the feature launches only in the United States. However, Instagram plans to expand it globally in English soon. Furthermore, the company intends to extend this functionality beyond Reels to the Explore page and other sections of the app over time.
Why This Matters?
Social media platforms have faced increasing pressure from regulators and users demanding more transparency. Critics argue that algorithms can create echo chambers or promote harmful content. Therefore, companies traditionally guard their algorithms as proprietary “secret sauce” for user engagement.
Nevertheless, Instagram positions itself as “leading the way” in algorithmic transparency. The company states that as user interests evolve, they want to provide more meaningful ways to control content consumption.
Regulatory Context
This announcement comes at a significant time. Recently, Australia became the first country to ban people under 16 from major social media platforms, including Instagram. The Australian government specifically mentioned protecting children from “predatory algorithms” as a key reason for the ban.
Consequently, Instagram’s move toward greater user control may help address concerns about algorithmic manipulation, especially regarding younger users.
Benefits for Users
The Your Algorithm feature offers several advantages. Primarily, it reduces frustration with irrelevant content recommendations. Additionally, it empowers users to shape their own experience rather than passively consuming whatever the algorithm suggests. Most importantly, it provides transparency into how Instagram categorizes user interests.
Instagram announces Your Algorithm feature as part of its commitment to giving users more control over their social media experience while addressing growing concerns about algorithmic content curation.
