Instagram is testing a new feature that allows users to remove all the content suggested to them. This “reset” tool will soon be available worldwide, giving users the option to clean their feed of algorithmic recommendations. However, Instagram clarifies that over time, the recommendations will become personalized again.
In efforts to enhance user wellbeing, Instagram has introduced various new features. These include safety measures launched in October and new teen accounts in September. Ofcom, the UK media regulator, has acknowledged these efforts but believes more action is necessary to ensure social media safety.
Tech companies are being urged to make significant changes before the UK’s Online Safety Act takes full effect. This act will require major sites and apps to provide users with more control over their online experience. Some feel the act might not be stringent enough and advocate for additional restrictions, such as limiting mobile phone use among young people.
Meta, the parent company of Instagram, states that the new feature will allow users, including teens, to reset their recommendations easily. By selecting “reset suggested content” in their preferences, users can unfollow accounts and refresh their feeds. This move aligns with the upcoming implementation of the Online Safety Act, which will hold tech companies accountable for monitoring illegal content online.
Vocabulary List:
- Algorithmic /ˌælɡəˈrɪðmɪk/ (adjective): Relating to or using a process or set of rules to be followed in calculations or other problem-solving operations.
- Personalized /ˈpɜrsənəˌlaɪzd/ (adjective): Tailored to an individual’s preferences or needs.
- Enhance /ɪnˈhæns/ (verb): To improve the quality value or extent of something.
- Regulator /ˈrɛɡjʊˌleɪtə/ (noun): An official body that supervises a particular industry or activity to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
- Accountable /əˈkaʊntəbl/ (adjective): Responsible for actions or decisions and required to explain them when asked.
- Recommendations /ˌrɛkəmenˈdeɪʃənz/ (noun): Suggestions or proposals as to the best course of action.
How much do you know?
What is the new feature that Instagram is testing to allow users to clean their feed of algorithmic recommendations?
What does Instagram clarify will happen to the recommendations over time after users use the "reset" tool?
What organization has acknowledged Instagram's efforts to enhance user wellbeing?
What is the upcoming legislation in the UK that will require tech companies to provide users with more control over their online experience?
Which parent company owns Instagram and has stated that the new feature aligns with the Online Safety Act?
In what month were safety measures and new teen accounts introduced by Instagram?
The Online Safety Act in the UK will require tech companies to monitor and remove illegal content online.
Meta is not the parent company of Instagram.
Some people believe that the Online Safety Act might not be stringent enough.
The new feature on Instagram allows users to reset their recommendations by blocking specific accounts.
Ofcom is a UK media regulator that advocates for reducing restrictions on mobile phone use among young people.
The "reset" tool on Instagram will permanently delete all suggested content from users' feeds.