Instagram - the popular photo-sharing platform owned by Meta - has introduced a new feature that gives users the ability to reset their content recommendations, providing a fresh start for those dissatisfied with their current feed.

The update, announced by Instagram in a blog post on Tuesday, is aimed at offering more control to users over the algorithm that shapes their experience on the platform.

The reset feature, located in the content preferences section of Instagram’s settings, allows users to activate the option and wipe the algorithm’s memory of their past interactions. By doing so, the algorithm "forgets" everything it knows about the user, enabling them to start receiving new, personalized content based on their updated interests.

Customizing the feed

Along with the reset option, Instagram advises users to review the accounts they follow and their ad preferences to prevent the algorithm from returning to the same suggestions that were previously unwanted. “Your recommendations will start to personalize again over time, showing new content based on the content and accounts you interact with,” Instagram said in its post.

The feature is designed to allow users to have greater control over their content, especially if they feel that their interests have changed or if they wish to escape unwanted content.

Three phone screens showing Instagram.

This feature is particularly useful for teenagers, who may find themselves exposed to inappropriate or irrelevant content. In addition to the content reset, Instagram has long been working on measures to protect younger users, including enhanced safety features for teen accounts and tools to prevent sextortion. Meta has also developed AI-driven systems to ensure that minors are properly categorized, especially in cases where users may attempt to misrepresent their age.

Teen protection in focus

Instagram’s parent company Meta emphasized that the algorithm reset is part of its ongoing efforts to protect teens from harmful content. Meta has been under increasing scrutiny regarding the safety of young users on its platforms. In the same blog post, the company highlighted a new page in its Transparency Center, detailing how Instagram and Facebook work to keep teens safe by removing inappropriate content and hiding potentially harmful videos and images.

“Your recommendations will start to personalize again over time, showing new content based on the content and accounts you interact with,” Instagram said. "When resetting, you'll also have the option to review the accounts you're following and unfollow any that share content you no longer want to see."

In addition to content moderation, Meta also stated that there are certain types of content that Instagram will never recommend, even if they do not violate any of the platform's community guidelines. These types of content will only appear in a user’s feed if they actively seek it out.

Wider impact on digital platforms

The launch of Instagram's content reset feature comes at a time when other digital platforms are also enhancing protections for younger audiences. Social media platforms like Roblox and Fortnite have made changes to better control content and ensure the safety of younger users. Governments, too, are stepping in with new regulations to safeguard children. In Australia, for instance, a proposed social media ban would prevent children under 16 from accessing these platforms without parental approval.