Source: [freepik]
This is where social media algorithms come into play: they determine what content is displayed in our feeds and ensure that each user receives a personalized experience. This means that no two people see exactly the same content, even if they follow the same accounts.
What Is a Social Media Algorithm?
A social media algorithm consists of a complex set of rules and signals. These algorithms evaluate content based on various criteria, including the likelihood that certain posts are interesting for individual people or could lead to interactions. The exact criteria vary depending on the platform – what applies to Facebook does not necessarily apply to Instagram or X. The AI of the algorithms are all powered by machine learning, which means they adjust over time
The Facebook Algorithm
The exact way the Facebook algorithm works remains largely secret. However, it is based on the behavior of users: Which people or pages do you follow? Which content do you interact with most often? The algorithm analyzes all this data and shows you more of the content that matches your behavior. Facebook also evaluates the relevance of posts based on their quality and the engagement of other users. This helps to curb misinformation and ensure that high-quality content is highlighted.
The Instagram Algorithm
Each section of the Instagram app uses a specific algorithm to personalize the user experience. The algorithms pay particular attention to your activities within the app: Which posts do you like? Which ones do you comment on or share? The more active you are, the more relevant the displayed content will be for you. How often you use Instagram also plays a role: if you are less active, you may see older posts than someone who uses the app several times a day. [1]
The X Algorithm
X’s algorithm suggests accounts for you to follow, taking into consideration your uploaded contacts and your interactions with other active users. The homepage is made up of two sections: the first page shows you posts from the accounts you follow (in reverse chronological order), while the “For you” section is created through a multi-step process. Here, the algorithm uses several ranking signals to suggest posts that are relevant to you. These are then curated into a personalized feed with the help of filters and the so-called “Home Mixer”. [2]
How Can I Control My Algorithm?
Actively liking, commenting on and sharing posts that you find interesting is the easiest way to shape your social media experience. Most apps allow you to block or mute accounts and types of content that you do not want to see. There are also several options for editing sensitive content and reporting inappropriate posts.
The algorithms generally determine how we consume information and what content is presented to us. Nonetheless, there are plenty of options to influence these algorithms and personalize our online experience.
Responsible for the content of this article is Masimba Koschke
[1] About Instagram
[2] X Engineering
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