Instagram new update will allow users to reset explore page and algorithm for personalized content

Instagram will soon allow users to reset its recommendation algorithm to ensure teens see appropriate content.

Instagram users will soon gain the ability to manually reset the recommendation algorithm that curates their feed content. The platform, owned by Meta Platforms, announced in a blog post on Tuesday that this feature aims to help teenagers view more suitable content.  

“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 said. “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 explained that with just a few steps, users will be able to clear recommendations across the Explore, Reels, and Feed sections. While in this mode, they can also review and modify their "following" list by unfollowing accounts as needed.  

“Your recommendations will start to personalize again over time, showing new content based on the content and accounts you interact with,” Instagram added in the blog post.  

On Monday, Meta published additional details on how it restricts sensitive content for teenagers. Earlier this summer, Instagram announced measures to automatically place teenagers into private accounts with enhanced controls and restrictions.  

These updates come amid ongoing criticism of Meta and Instagram from safety advocates, who argue that the platform negatively impacts younger users.  

Currently, Instagram users can partially influence their recommendation algorithm through a widget to mark content as “interested” or “not interested.” In February, the platform stopped recommending political content altogether.  

The recommendation-reset feature, which is in the "testing" phase but will soon be available worldwide, mirrors a function already available on TikTok.