This New Instagram Feature Is Aimed At Keeping Teens Safer

Social media platforms have come under considerable scrutiny in recent years over the negative impact they can have on the mental and emotional well-being of users. Instagram, in particular, has become a commonly cited potential danger to teens.

Now, the Meta-owned app says it’s doing something to help alleviate those concerns.

Refreshing the system

As you probably already know, the content you see on most major social media feeds isn’t random but rather dictated by algorithms that remain hidden and can change without notice.

That lack of transparency contributes to the belief many consumers have that social media companies care more about monetizing their users than protecting them.

In a blog post this week, however, Instagram announced a significant step that will at least give individuals some control over the algorithm’s impact. Essentially, the new feature allows users to reset their feed at any time and start fresh.

“We want to make sure everyone on Instagram — especially teens — has safe, positive, age-appropriate experiences and feels the time they’re spending on Instagram is valuable,” the company explained.

A work in progress

This isn’t the first step Instagram has taken in hopes of easing concerns about its algorithmic feed. The platform previously gave users an option to select “interested” or “not interested” on any piece of content in order to teach the algorithm about individual preferences.

During the recent election season, the company also put a halt on all recommendations of political content.

The algorithm reset appears to be the most significant step Instagram has taken to date, though, and seems to signal that the company is taking the criticism seriously.

“We want to give teens new ways to shape their Instagram experience so it can continue to reflect their passions and interests as they evolve,” Instagram added.

Chris Agee November 20th, 2024

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