Instagram is rolling out a new feature that enables users to reset their content recommendations, allowing the algorithm to relearn their preferences based on fresh interactions.

While this tool is primarily aimed at teenagers, it will be accessible to all users, recognizing that irrelevant suggestions can affect everyone.

These changes come in response to mounting criticism regarding the impact of Meta's platforms on the mental health of young users.

Meta is currently facing a lawsuit claiming that its social media products exploit children and expose them to harmful content, a charge the company disputes.

This move aligns with a broader trend among various platforms, such as Roblox and Fortnite, which are also enhancing protections for younger users.

Meta has also enhanced protections for teen accounts, which are now set to private by default and include various restrictions for users under 18.

Ofcom, the UK's online safety regulator, has welcomed Instagram's initiatives but insists that further action is necessary to ensure social media safety.

Concerns have been raised by online safety advocates about recommendation algorithms that may expose young users to harmful content.

International discussions are underway regarding youth safety online, with proposals like Australia's suggestion to ban social media for users under 16.

The upcoming Online Safety Act (OSA) will require large social media platforms to give users more control over their content by December 2024.

Parents have generally welcomed these updates, appreciating the increased oversight of their children's social media usage.

When users activate the reset feature, the algorithm forgets previous interactions, helping them escape unwanted content.