Meta Enhances Threads Algorithm to Prioritize Content from Followed Accounts

The recent modifications to the Threads platform's algorithm aim to enhance user experience by prioritizing content from followed accounts. This change, announced by Meta, the umbrella company for Threads, will allow users to view more posts from the individuals they are connected with while reducing the visibility of suggested posts from unfamiliar accounts.

Starting Thursday, the Threads app will display a decreased amount of recommended posts, which are typically showcased from non-followed accounts. Although users have always had the option to view a feed exclusively containing posts from their connections, the algorithm-based feed will remain the default when the app is opened.

In an update shared on Threads, the head of Instagram discussed how the algorithm's adjustments will impact what content users see. Their focus is on refining the ranking system to elevate the visibility of posts from users' connections, ultimately leading to a decrease in recommendations from unfamiliar accounts while promoting content from followed profiles starting immediately.

This update notably affects content creators who utilize the platform to reach a broader audience. With the algorithm adjustments, these creators can anticipate that their existing followers will be more likely to see their posts, even as their overall reach to unconnected users may decline.

For creators, the expectation is that the visibility of posts among their connected followers will improve while the reach to those who are not following them diminishes. The individual behind the update emphasized the ongoing effort required to balance follower engagement and reach, inviting constructive feedback from the community.

Reports from the platform's staff noted that Threads has already implemented this shift by presenting fewer suggested posts from accounts that are not known to users. Those who prefer to see only the content from their connections can easily switch to a tailored feed by selecting the Following tab.

While the reasons for this algorithm update were not detailed, it's important to recognize that Threads, which boasted over 175 million monthly active users as of July, is also facing challenges associated with automated accounts, similar to other platforms like X. The presence of automated accounts frequently resharing popular posts can lead to an overwhelming experience for users. With the introduction of these changes to the algorithm, individuals will encounter a more personalized feed with limited exposure to posts from accounts they do not follow.