Instagram Alters Feeds So That “Newer Posts Are More Likely To Appear First”

Instagram has announced two changes to its feed, which it controversially altered to organize via algorithm in 2016, as opposed to reverse chronological order — much to the chagrin of many influencers.

Now, Instagram has announced that while it will not offer an option for reverse chronological distribution, “changes [will] ensure that newer posts are more likely to appear first in feed,” according to a blog post. “Your feed will feel more fresh, and you won’t miss the moments you care about.” While the algorithm is here to stay, Instagram did tease that more improvements to the feed — based on user feedback — would be announced in coming months.

Additionally, the company is integrating a ‘New Posts’ button that will let users decide when they want to refresh their feeds — rather than this happening automatically within the app. “We’ve heard it can feel unexpected when your feed refreshes and automatically bumps you to the top,” the company said. “Don’t tap [the New Posts button], and you’ll stay where you are.”

In December, Instagram instituted another polarizing change to feeds, in which it began distributing ‘Recommended’ content to users from accounts they don’t follow.