Meta adapts for EU with algorithm changes and enhanced transparency

Meta is rolling out fresh measures to conform with the impending EU Digital Services Act (DSA), which will introduce expanded control and transparency rules for European users of Facebook and Instagram. 

The DSA is designed to give social media users more power to manage their online experience and control how their personal data is used. It also aims to stimulate greater competition within the sector by providing clearer insights into the operational mechanisms of major platforms.

In addition, Meta is on the verge of offering EU users an algorithm-free experience on its apps. And the company is enhancing its resources for researchers by bolstering both its Ad Library and its tools for academic insight. The most notable change for users is the removal of algorithms.

“We’re now giving our European community the option to view and discover content on Reels, Stories, Search and other parts of Facebook and Instagram that is not ranked by Meta using [algorithmic] systems. For example, on Facebook and Instagram, users will have the option to view Stories and Reels only from people they follow, ranked in chronological order, newest to oldest.” Meta stated.  “They will also be able to view Search results based only on the words they enter, rather than personalized specifically to them based on their previous activity and personal interests.”

This change is likely to receive a warm reception from a considerable segment of social media users. They view algorithmic ranking as a form of meddling and a way to manipulate the content displayed on their applications. Many individuals using platforms like Facebook and Instagram have been advocating for the removal of algorithmic sorting for a considerable period. Nonetheless, the introduction of the choice to deactivate algorithms hasn’t consistently yielded the level of popularity or advantages that many initially expect.

Although the notion of seeing content in the order it’s posted might seem attractive, platforms use algorithms because they work well in making the user experience better. To put it plainly, removing the algorithmic filter might reduce the attractiveness of Facebook and Instagram. Nevertheless, under the new rules, users in the EU can turn the algorithm back on if they want. 

Meta is expanding its Ads Library to encompass all ads aimed at EU individuals. This extended repository will provide details like ad duration, targeting criteria (such as age and location), and recipients. Researchers could gain insights into ad strategies and misuse. This aids advertising managers in optimizing approaches by understanding how rivals target users.

According to a report conducted last month, Meta was getting ready to introduce a new kind of Facebook ads that will let users in the European Union download apps without having to go to Google and Apple’s app stores.

Additionally, Meta introduces tools for researchers, aligning with transparency goals. This grants insights into system operations and their impact through public posts. Emphasizing a collaboration of over 1,000 staff members, Meta crafted a DSA-compliant strategy.

Just two days ago, Meta shared an updated look at its ad automation tools.