Meta-owned social media platform Instagram has begun rolling out a new Reels Algorithm Customisation feature for its users. This tool is designed to give people greater control over their recommendations by allowing them to personalise how their Reels algorithm works, so they can fine-tune the type of content that shows up in their feed.
The update was announced via Instagram’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, which described it as a way to build the Instagram algorithm “brick by brick” by adjusting preferences directly from the Reels tab. Users are instructed to open the Reels section, tap the icon in the top-right corner to access their algorithm settings, and then modify their interests to make the feed more tailored to them.
Instagram says the feature is rolling out across most English-speaking regions, but it has’t yet provided a detailed list of supported countries. The rollout still appears limited, as the option does not currently show up on devices in India and remains unavailable on both Android and iOS at the time of checking.
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How does this work?
According to the visual guide shared by Instagram, users must first open the Reels tab from the bottom navigation bar and then tap the filter-style icon in the top-right corner to enter the new control panel. Inside this section, Instagram presents two primary controls that help shape the viewing experience.
Once in the menu, users see options to indicate what they would like to watch more of and what they would prefer to see less often. Under the “see more” area, Instagram automatically surfaces keyword suggestions based on past viewing behaviour, and these can be edited or expanded by adding fresh topics to further fine-tune recommendations. In contrast, the “see less” option lets users specify themes or topics they want to avoid, reducing or even cutting out certain kinds of Reels from their feed.
Overall, the feature may bring more transparency and user control to how the Reels algorithm curates content, making it easier for people to actively shape their experience instead of relying solely on passive viewing signals.
FAQs
Q1. What is Instagram’s new Reels algorithm customisation feature?
A. It is a personalisation tool that enables users to shape their Reels feed by choosing topics they want to see more of and subjects they would like to see less, thereby exerting more control over content recommendations.
Q2. How can users access the Instagram Reels algorithm feature?
A. A user can open the Reels tab and tap the icon in the top-right corner to enter the algorithm controls. After that, adjust suggested keywords, add new areas of interest, or downrank topics they do not want to see.
Q3. Where is the Instagram Reels algorithm feature available right now?
A. Instagram states that the rollout covers most English-speaking regions, but it has not released a country-specific list. Also, the feature is still not visible in markets such as India on either Android or iOS.
Q4. Will using this feature affect content creators?
A. This change primarily impacts users’ feeds and does not directly penalise creators. But reduced visibility for downranked topics could indirectly affect reach for content in those categories.
