Meta announced on Tuesday a new Facebook algorithm update that will showcase more Reels videos tailored to users’ preferences. The update includes features that offer users greater control over the videos they see, AI-powered search suggestions, and new friend bubbles.
Facebook will make it easier for users to express their disinterest in these types of videos. They can now select “Not Interested” on a Reel or flag a comment, prompting the recommendations engine to adapt based on this feedback.
The “Save” feature has also been updated to make it simpler to collect favorite Reels and posts in one place.
The changes may help address user complaints about undesirable content. Many users have expressed their frustration with reels that are deemed scammy, annoying, or filled with low-quality AI-generated videos. Meta has invested heavily in AI, recently launching a short-form video feed called “Vibes,” featuring only AI-generated content in the Meta AI app.
Additionally, the algorithm update aims to prioritize newer content. According to the company, it will present users with 50% more Reels that were uploaded on the same day that they’re scrolling.
Facebook Reels will also feature AI-powered search suggestions. These suggestions will recommend queries to help users discover more content about topics they like, similar to the gray suggestions found at the bottom of TikTok videos.
In addition, there will be new friend bubbles on Reels and in the main feed so users can see which posts their friends have liked — similar to a feature on Instagram. Users can tap on a bubble representing a friend’s profile picture to open a private message with them.
