Instagram Unveils “Your Algorithm” Tool for Reels, Giving Users Direct Control

Instagram is handing users the keys to their own feed. The social media giant announced a new transparency tool on Wednesday. Called “Your Algorithm,” it lets users see and control the topics shaping their Reels recommendations.

The move is a direct response to growing user curiosity about how platforms curate content. It also follows similar features from competitors, signaling a shift toward user-controlled personalization.

How Instagram’s New Algorithm Transparency Tool Works

The tool is accessible directly from the Reels player. Users tap a new icon in the upper right corner. This icon resembles two lines with small hearts.

A dashboard then opens. It displays a personalized list of interest topics. These topics are determined by a user’s activity on the app.

Instagram uses AI to summarize these interests into a short description. A user might see: “Lately you’ve been into creativity, sports hype, and fitness motivation.” This summary can be shared to a Story, similar to Spotify Wrapped.

Below the summary, users see the specific topics driving their Reels. They can select which topics to see more or less of. The feed adapts immediately based on these choices.

Crucially, users are not limited to a preset list. They can type in new topics to add to their interests. This offers a level of customization not previously available.

A Step Toward Transparency in a Competitive Market

This launch is part of a broader industry trend. According to reports from TechCrunch, TikTok rolled out a “Manage Topics” feature last year. That feature also lets users tailor their For You feed.

Instagram’s implementation differs in key ways. TikTok’s tool offers a set list of generic categories. Instagram’s list is fully personalized and expandable by the user.

The new tool is available immediately in the United States. A global rollout in English is scheduled to follow soon. The company confirmed the feature will expand beyond Reels in the future.

Instagram plans to bring “Your Algorithm” to the Explore feed next. The goal is to apply this user-controlled personalization across more parts of the app. This gives users unprecedented insight into their digital experience.

This shift toward algorithmic transparency marks a significant moment for social media. User demand for control is finally being answered. Instagram’s algorithm control is no longer a mystery box, but a customizable dashboard.

Info at your fingertips

What is Instagram’s “Your Algorithm” tool?

It is a new feature within Instagram Reels. It shows users the topics influencing their recommendations. Users can then customize these topics to shape their feed.

How do I find and use the new tool?

Look for a new icon in the top right corner while watching a Reel. The icon looks like two lines with hearts. Tapping it opens your personalized algorithm dashboard.

Can I add topics that aren’t on my list?

Yes. Unlike some competitor tools, Instagram allows you to type in new interests. You are not limited to the topics the algorithm initially shows you.

Will this tool be available for my main feed?

Not immediately. Instagram is starting the rollout with Reels. The company has stated plans to expand it to the Explore feed and other app sections later.

Why is Instagram launching this feature now?

It responds to user curiosity about how algorithms work. It also matches a competitive move by TikTok, which launched a similar topic management feature last year.

Is the tool available worldwide?

It launched first in the United States. Instagram confirmed a global expansion for English-language users is coming soon. Other language support may follow.