Threads Algorithm Control: Tag to Customize Your Feed

Threads Exploring User Algorithm Control

Instagram is currently investigating the possibility of introducing features to Threads, its competitor to X, that would grant users greater control over the platform's algorithm.

Discovery of the Feature

This development was initially identified through code analysis conducted by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi. He revealed that the functionality is connected to similar algorithm configuration tools planned for the main Instagram application.

Instagram has acknowledged the existence of this feature, clarifying that it remains an internal prototype and is not yet undergoing user testing.

A dedicated Instagram account, @threads.algo, associated with this feature is active and followed by numerous Meta engineers.

How the Feature Might Work

Paluzzi’s research suggests that Threads users will be presented with an explanation detailing how they can "tag" the account to influence the content displayed in their feeds.

This concept mirrors a recent announcement from Elon Musk regarding planned updates to X. He indicated that users would soon be able to interact with Grok – X’s AI chatbot – to adjust their feeds in real-time, with the platform’s algorithm becoming “purely AI by November.”

Broader Algorithmic Changes at Instagram

The Threads feature is linked to Instagram’s wider initiative to refine its core app, with a focus on prioritizing Reels and personalized recommendations.

Instagram announced on Wednesday that it will soon empower users to directly influence the app’s algorithm by specifying topics they wish to see more or less of.

Previous Efforts at User Customization

This isn’t Instagram’s first attempt at providing users with greater control over their experience. Alternative feeds, namely Following and Favorites, were introduced in 2022.

Similarly, Threads implemented the ability to switch between the primary For You feed and a Following feed in 2023.

Context of Increased Scrutiny

These changes are occurring amidst ongoing congressional inquiries into the impact of social media algorithms on young people.

Concerns surrounding algorithmic influence have also spurred the development of alternative social networks, such as Bluesky, which offer users choices regarding algorithms and moderation policies.

Demonstration of Instagram’s New Controls

Instagram head Adam Mosseri showcased the new feature in a post on Wednesday. Users can access an interface via a button at the top of their feed.

This interface allows users to select suggested topics for increased visibility, or to manually search for and input their own preferences.

Adapting to Changing Interests

Instagram explained that this feature is designed to help the algorithm better respond to users’ evolving moods and interests.

For example, a user might choose to see fewer posts related to a sports team that is underperforming.

Suitability for Threads’ Format

Threads offers a distinct user experience, characterized by rapid-paced posts, replies, and updates, particularly during breaking news or significant events, much like X.

Therefore, a more immediate interface for “tagging the algorithm” might be more effective than extensive settings adjustments.

Leveraging Existing Interaction Patterns

Users of text-based social applications are accustomed to utilizing reply functions for various actions.

Beyond tools for organizing lengthy discussions, X users frequently tag Grok to solicit insights about other users’ posts.

Instagram’s Broader Revamp

Mosseri also announced on Wednesday that Instagram is undergoing a redesign that will prioritize Reels, Direct Messages (DMs), and recommendations.

Instagram has not yet provided a specific timeline for the public launch of the algorithm configuration feature.