‘Your Algorithm’: Instagram allows users to see and tweak their Reels feed

Instagram has rolled out Your Algorithm, an AI-powered feature that lets users see and fine-tune how the platform’s recommendation system shapes their Reels feed. Designed to offer greater transparency and control, the tool allows users to adjust the topics they want to see more or less of in real time, marking a significant shift in how social media platforms expose and personalise algorithm-driven content.

What is Instagram’s ‘Your Algorithm’ feature?

Meta-owned Instagram has rolled out a new AI-driven tool called ‘Your Algorithm’, designed to let users see how the platform interprets their interests and uses them to recommend Reels. The feature represents a rare step towards algorithm transparency in social media.

Accessible from an icon in the top-right corner of the Reels feed, the tool shows users a summary of topics Instagram believes they are interested in, based on viewing behaviour and engagement history.

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How does it give users more control?

With ‘Your Algorithm’, users can actively tell Instagram which topics they want to see more or less of. Any changes made are reflected in recommendations almost immediately, allowing users to fine-tune their feed without resetting their account or clearing history.

Instagram said this approach acknowledges that user interests evolve over time and aims to offer more meaningful personalisation rather than passive consumption.

Why is this feature significant?

Social media platforms globally have faced increasing scrutiny from regulators and users over opaque algorithms that may create echo chambers or amplify harmful content. While algorithms are often treated as proprietary systems, Meta says Instagram is “leading the way” by offering greater visibility into how recommendations work.

The move balances transparency with engagement, an area where platforms have traditionally been reluctant to offer insight.

How to access and use ‘Your Algorithm’

Users can find the feature by opening the Reels tab, tapping the icon with two hearts on lines at the top-right, and viewing their personalised interest summary. From there, users can edit topic tags to influence future recommendations.

There is also an option titled “Build your 2026 algorithm”, allowing further customisation for the year ahead.

Can users share it on Instagram Stories?

Yes. Users can share their algorithm summary directly to Instagram Stories using the share button on the top-right of the screen. Additionally, tapping the “See your algorithm” prompt on a friend’s Story provides a shortcut to access the feature.

Where is the feature available?

‘Your Algorithm’ was first launched in the United States in December 2025 and is now rolling out gradually to users worldwide. Instagram has also indicated plans to extend the feature beyond Reels to Explore and other areas of the app.

Why it matters

By allowing users to inspect and influence AI-driven recommendations, Instagram’s ‘Your Algorithm’ could reshape how people interact with social media feeds—placing more agency in users’ hands while responding to long-standing demands for transparency and accountability.