- Meta is changing its algorithms on Instagram and Threads to reduce the spread of political content.
- Professional accounts on Instagram will have control over their eligibility for recommendation.
- Users can choose to see political content by toggling the option in their settings.
Meta, the company behind social media giants like Facebook and Instagram, has announced changes to how it handles political content on its platforms.
These changes aim to reduce the spread of political debates and toxicity, similar to what is seen on Twitter.
Changes in Recommendation Algorithms
Meta will no longer push political posts to users by default. This means that Instagram and its new app Threads won’t actively suggest political content anymore. This change applies to various sections like Instagram Explore, Reels, and recommendations in both Instagram and Threads.
Differentiation from Twitter
Unlike Twitter, where political debates are common, Instagram and Threads are steering away from news and political discussions. This move is evident from their decision to delay adding a “trends” feature, unlike Twitter’s offering.
These changes affect how content is recommended on Instagram but not how content from followed accounts is displayed. So, if a non-recommended account posts political content, it will still reach its followers but won’t be pushed to non-followers.
Control for Professional Accounts:
Professional accounts on Instagram will have a feature called Account Status to check their eligibility for recommendation. They can edit or remove posts from this page and request a review if they disagree with Instagram’s decision. They can also choose to stop posting political content to become eligible for recommendation again.
User Control:
Users who want to see political content recommended can toggle this option in their Settings on both Instagram and Threads. A similar control will be available on Facebook in the future.
Meta plans to roll out these changes gradually to ensure they are implemented correctly. However, they haven’t specified a date for full availability to all users.
Significance of the Changes
Meta‘s decision to remove politics from recommendation surfaces reflects its effort to distance itself from the spread of hate and misinformation on its platforms. This move could also appease lawmakers concerned about regulating Big Tech companies.
Meta’s new approach to handling political content on Instagram and Threads marks a significant shift in how social media platforms navigate political discussions. These changes aim to create a safer and more positive online environment for users, especially in the lead-up to important events like elections.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Social Media in a Political Context?
Social media in a political context refers to the use of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and others for discussing, sharing, and influencing political ideas, events, and opinions. It includes activities such as political campaigning, sharing news articles, debating political issues, and mobilizing supporters.
How to Moderate Political Content?
The moderation of political content encompasses a wide range of topics related to governance, public policy, elections, political parties, and ideologies. It includes discussions on issues such as healthcare, education, economy, foreign policy, social justice, and more. The moderation of political content also includes news articles, opinion pieces, speeches, and statements from political figures.
Which Social Media Platforms Are Used the Most in Politics?
Twitter is one of the social media platforms most commonly used for politics due to its real-time nature and wide reach. It has become a popular platform for political figures, journalists, and citizens to share news, express opinions, and engage in political debates. Additionally, Facebook and Instagram are also used for political purposes, with politicians and parties using these platforms to connect with voters, share campaign updates, and mobilize support.
What is Political Media?
Political media refers to media content, including news articles, television programs, radio broadcasts, and online platforms, that focus on political topics and events. It includes coverage of elections, government activities, political campaigns, policy debates, and political commentary.
