The new Instagram algorithm, as of 2024, continues to evolve to improve user engagement and prioritize high-quality content. Instagram’s algorithm focuses on several key factors to determine which posts users see in their feed, Stories, and Explore pages.
Here are some important updates and factors:
1. Interest-Based RecommendationsInstagram uses machine learning to predict which posts you’ll likely interact with based on your past behavior. The more a user engages with a certain type of content (e.g., travel, fitness), the more likely similar posts will appear at the top of their feed.
2. TimelinessRecent posts are given preference in the feed, but this factor is balanced against content relevancy. However, newer posts still tend to rank higher.
3. User InteractionInstagram ranks content based on how often you engage with a specific account (likes, comments, shares, DMs). Posts from accounts that you interact with frequently are more likely to appear higher in your feed.
4. Content-Type PreferencesInstagram observes whether a user prefers specific content types (photos, videos, Reels) and will prioritize showing those types. Reels have become increasingly important for visibility due to Instagram’s competition with TikTok.
5. Engagement (Likes, Comments, Shares, Saves)Content that drives more engagement is likely to be pushed to more users. Posts with higher engagement early after being posted also get a boost in the algorithm.
6. Hashtags and KeywordsInstagram has placed more emphasis on hashtags and keyword search in recent updates, which means using relevant and trending hashtags can help posts reach a wider audience.
7. OriginalityTo support original creators, Instagram’s algorithm has begun prioritizing original content over reposted content. This means users who create their own posts, instead of resharing others’ content, may see a boost in visibility.
8. Avoiding “Engagement Bait”Instagram’s algorithm now penalizes posts that use “engagement bait” tactics (e.g., “like this if you agree!”). This reduces the reach of such posts.
9. Ads and Sponsored ContentInstagram continues to blend organic content with ads. Sponsored posts and ads are also displayed based on a user’s interests, and brands are encouraged to make their ads relevant and engaging to match organic content.
10. Explore Page and ReelsThe Explore page and Reels now focus more on new accounts or content you haven’t interacted with before, offering more personalized suggestions based on your recent activity.
In short, Instagram’s algorithm has become more sophisticated, with a focus on engagement, content originality, and timeliness, while avoiding tactics like engagement bait.
It’s also pushing more visual formats like Reels to compete with other short-form video platforms.
