Key facts
- Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri believes an algorithm-free world would lead to users seeing more brand content.
- Mosseri stated that a reverse chronological feed would incentivize more frequent posting, potentially reducing reach for friends and creators.
- Australia plans to require social media platforms to offer users a choice between algorithmic and chronological content feeds.
- Mosseri suggested that users would be "overwhelmed" by brand content and use the app less in an algorithm-free environment.
- Instagram is trying to give users more control over content by allowing them to opt out of certain topics in recommendations.
- Mosseri stated that Instagram is not clinically addictive, distinguishing colloquial use of the term from medical definitions.
Instagram's chief executive, Adam Mosseri, has voiced concerns that a world without algorithmic content curation would negatively impact user experience, leading to an overload of brand-related content and reduced engagement on the platform. His remarks come as the Australian government is considering legislation that would require social media platforms to offer users a choice between algorithmically recommended content and a reverse chronological feed of posts from accounts they follow.
Mosseri, speaking at the launch of Instagram's "Algo Confessions" series in Australia, did not directly address the Australian proposal but explained that Instagram utilizes various algorithms for ranking content, including friend activity in stories and message suggestions. He argued that a return to purely chronological feeds would primarily benefit those who can afford to post most frequently, leading to a dominance of brand and corporate content. This, he suggested, would dilute the visibility of friends and creators, ultimately diminishing user interest and overall platform usage.