Instagram is experimenting with a new feature that gives users more control over the content they see on their feeds. And the platform has introduced a transparency tool for creators.
With the new “Interested” button on recommended posts, users can tell Instagram they would like to see more of that particular kind of content. This new feature adds to Instagram’s existing personalisation controls, such as the “Not Interested” option, which lets them tell that they would like to see fewer similar posts, with such posts not appearing in their feed.
Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri detailed how content is ranked on Instagram. The posts and Reels are ranked based on users’ activity, and Stories ranking based on the frequency of user engagement with the user.
Instagram is also testing a new transparency notification to inform creators when their Reels’ reach might be limited due to a watermark. The feature aims to help creators understand why some of their Reels may not be distributed to non-followers. Instagram didn’t specify what watermarks it is referring to, but it is likely the TikTok content which gets uploaded on the app as Reels.
In a recent blog post, Instagram’s CEO addressed the issue of shadowbanning – a term used when a platform hides a user’s content without explanation.
He said that it is in the company’s best interest to ensure creators can reach their audiences and thrive on the platform. Instagram does not suppress content to encourage users to buy ads; instead, they prioritise making the platform more engaging by promoting the most interesting content.
Mosseri acknowledged that users’ concerns about shadowbanning show the need for Instagram to do more to help users understand what’s happening with their accounts. To this end, the company expanded its Account Status hub last December to make it easier for businesses and creators to understand their content’s eligibility for recommendation.
Instagram plans to add more transparency tools to Account Status, said Mosseri.
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