The new algorithm reset feature will be rolled out globally in a phased manner to offer users the choice to give their feed a complete makeover.
Instagram has been the go-to social media platform for over 2.4 billion users worldwide. The advanced algorithm of the Meta-owned platform shows users what they like to see based on their historical usage pattern. But that can get quite boring in the long run by consuming repetitive content. To help users build a new algorithm recommendation, Instagram now allows them to completely reset their feed.
Instagram is planning to roll out a new ‘Fresh Start’ feature that will be made available to global Instagram users in the upcoming weeks. Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, showed the new feature’s glimpse in his latest video post.
He mentioned that upon resetting, the entire app will initially become less engaging. The reason behind this, he stated, is “because we’re going to treat you as if we know nothing about your interests, and it will take some time to learn those again.” He emphasized that the newly introduced feature is only for those who are bored with their Instagram feed suggestions and overall experience.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam Mosseri (@mosseri)
For those who decide to reset their Instagram algorithm, there is some hope to customize the feed right after the reset. The initial likes and other engagement actions after resetting will help fine-tune recommendations and build a new algorithm pattern based on what they like in the present.
Instagram is also allowing a group of select users enrolled in its developer program to test the new feature before commercially launching it. However, the new feature will start appearing in some locations next week.
The process to reset the algorithm is simple. Users need to visit Settings to see a new ‘Content Preference or Suggested Content’ button. By clicking on it, a reset content suggestion button will appear. Users can review the people they follow and ad topics mentioned in the list or simply click ‘Reset Suggested Content’ to erase their usage history completely.
This move will surely be appreciated by the global Instagram community, especially those who have been using the app for over 10 years now. A fresh start can often be associated with how people have changed over time, and social media platforms facilitating the freedom to rebuild their timeline is a boon in disguise.
