On social media platforms, algorithms quietly dictate what content users see, often feeling like a powerful yet invisible force. Threads users have found a unique way to communicate with this “dear algo”—a phrase used in posts to request more of what they enjoy or less of what they dislike. Meta is now officially recognizing this phenomenon, testing a feature that lets these pleas affect feed content for a limited period.
How the New Feature Works
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that Threads will experiment with an AI-driven mechanism that interprets posts starting with “Dear Algo.” When users include this phrase, the algorithm receives direct feedback on their content preferences. This feedback influences the user’s feed for up to three days, tailoring content visibility based on their expressed desires.
Social Interactions Around “Dear Algo”
Connor Hayes, head of Threads, explained that if a user’s profile is public, others can view these “Dear Algo” requests, engage in discussions about them, or even repost them. This transparency fosters community connection by publicizing user feedback and allowing peer interaction. It transforms algorithm requests from private hopes into social engagements, encouraging dialogue around content curation.
Impact on User Experience
By responding to “Dear Algo” posts, Threads is providing a novel form of user agency over their social feeds. For many, this feature turns an ironic or humorous plea into tangible control, enhancing satisfaction and trust in the platform. It addresses common frustrations where users feel disconnected from opaque algorithmic decisions and empowers them to steer their content consumption more actively.
Threads’ Growth and Significance
Since launching in 2023, Threads has rapidly gained traction, reaching 400 million monthly active users as of August 2025. In October, daily active users hit 150 million, reflecting significant engagement. The platform’s steady rise amplifies the importance of innovations like the “Dear Algo” feature, as it aims to maintain and improve user retention in a competitive social media landscape.
Behind the AI-Powered Feedback Interpretation
The feature leverages AI to parse natural language requests embedded in posts. This allows it to detect nuanced preferences, such as specific topics, creators, or content types users want more or less of. By analyzing these real-time signals, the algorithm adapts feed rankings dynamically, leading to fresher and more user-aligned content without manual adjustments.
How to Use the “Dear Algo” Feature
– Begin a post with the phrase “Dear Algo” followed by your preferences (e.g., “Dear Algo, show me more travel posts”).
– Keep your profile public if you want others to see, interact, or repost your request.
– Use the feature to emphasize what you enjoy or reduce content categories that bore or frustrate you.
– Note that the feedback effect lasts for up to three days before resetting.
– Engage with comments and reposts to deepen community dialogue about content curation.
Potential Implications for Algorithm Transparency
“Dear Algo” sets a precedent by making algorithmic influence more explicit and user-direct. It introduces a form of feed personalization that respects user voices beyond passive data collection. If successful, this approach could inspire broader transparency and more participatory content recommendation models across social networks.
Challenges and Future Considerations
Balancing user requests with platform objectives will require careful calibration to prevent manipulation or feedback loops that limit content diversity. The temporary three-day effect mitigates prolonged echo chambers but monitoring unintended consequences remains essential. Additionally, ensuring that “Dear Algo” becomes intuitive and accessible to all users will shape its adoption and impact over time.
Looking Ahead for Threads
As Threads continues evolving, features like “Dear Algo” demonstrate Meta’s commitment to innovative user engagement strategies. Further AI-driven personalization tools may be introduced, deepening the interplay between human preferences and algorithmic curation. Continued growth makes Threads a key battleground for social media innovation in the coming years.
