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- Threads launched a new “Dear Algo” AI feature allowing users to personalize their feed using natural language commands
- The feature aims to give users more control over content recommendations without technical complexity
- Available now for all Threads users globally as of February 11, 2026
- Represents a shift toward user-driven algorithmic customization in social media
- Follows increasing demand for transparency and control in social media algorithms
Threads Launches ‘Dear Algo’ AI Feature for Feed Personalization
Threads announced on February 11, 2026 that it has launched a new AI feature called “Dear Algo” that allows users to personalize their feed using natural language commands. The feature enables users to directly instruct the platform’s algorithm about their content preferences without navigating complex settings menus. This development matters because it represents a significant shift toward user-driven algorithmic customization, addressing growing demands for transparency and control over social media content recommendations.
How ‘Dear Algo’ Works
The new feature provides a conversational interface for feed customization:
Feature capabilities:
- Users can type natural language requests like “show me more posts about technology” or “less political content”
- The AI interprets these commands and adjusts the algorithm’s content weighting in real-time
- No technical knowledge or manual preference toggling required
Implementation details:
- Available in the Threads settings menu under “Feed Preferences”
- Works across both the For You and Following feed streams
- Supports multiple languages and regional content preferences
User control options:
- Content topics: Specify interests, hobbies, or subjects to prioritize
- Content frequency: Adjust how often specific types of posts appear
- Source preferences: Prioritize or deprioritize content from specific accounts or categories
Why This Matters for Users
This feature addresses several key pain points in social media user experience:
User empowerment:
- Direct control: Users can immediately influence their feed without waiting for algorithmic learning
- Transparency: Clear communication between user and algorithm reduces “black box” frustration
- Accessibility: Natural language interface removes technical barriers to customization
Platform implications:
- Competitive advantage: Differentiates Threads from other platforms with rigid algorithms
- User retention: Increased control may improve engagement and satisfaction metrics
- Industry trend: Signals a move toward more transparent, user-directed AI systems
Privacy considerations:
- Data usage: Personalization commands contribute to user preference profiles
- Opt-out options: Users can reset preferences or disable the feature entirely
- Data handling: Meta states all commands are processed locally when possible
Availability and Future Updates
Threads has rolled out the feature globally as of the announcement date:
Current availability:
- Available to all Threads users on iOS and Android
- Web version support coming in March 2026
- No additional cost or subscription required
Future enhancements:
- Voice commands: Planned for Q2 2026
- Advanced scheduling: Ability to set time-based preferences (e.g., “more sports content on weekends”)
- Community features: Potential for shared preference templates or community-driven customization
Conclusion
Threads’ “Dear Algo” feature represents a meaningful step toward user-controlled algorithmic experiences in social media. By enabling natural language customization, the platform addresses long-standing frustrations about opaque recommendation systems while maintaining the benefits of AI-powered content curation.
The feature’s success will likely influence how other social platforms approach algorithm transparency and user control. As users increasingly demand agency over their digital experiences, expect similar conversational AI interfaces to become standard across the industry in the coming years.
FAQ
How do I access the ‘Dear Algo’ feature on Threads?
The feature is available in your Threads app settings under “Feed Preferences.” Simply navigate to your profile, tap the menu icon, select Settings, then look for the Feed Preferences section where you’ll find the Dear Algo interface ready to use.
What types of commands can I use with Dear Algo?
You can use any natural language command related to content preferences. Examples include “show more cooking content,” “less celebrity news,” “prioritize posts from my close friends,” or “reduce political content in my feed.” The AI interprets the intent and adjusts accordingly.
Is my command history stored or visible to others?
According to Meta’s announcement, your Dear Algo commands are processed to update your personalization settings but are not publicly visible. The company states they use local processing when possible to enhance privacy, though some data may be stored to maintain your preferences across sessions.
Can I reset or undo my Dear Algo preferences?
Yes, you can reset all preferences at any time through the same Feed Preferences menu. There’s a “Reset to Default” option that clears all custom commands and returns your feed to Threads’ standard algorithm. You can also remove individual preferences if you change your mind about specific content types.
Does Dear Algo work differently for new versus existing users?
The feature works the same way for all users regardless of account age. However, new users may see more immediate and dramatic changes to their feed since they have less established algorithmic history. Existing users with extensive interaction data might notice more gradual adjustments as the system balances their new commands with past behavior.
Will Dear Algo be available on other Meta platforms?
Meta has not announced plans to bring Dear Algo to Instagram or Facebook yet. The company is likely monitoring user adoption and feedback on Threads before considering expansion to other platforms. If successful, similar features could appear across Meta’s family of apps in the future.
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