TikTok has introduced new features allowing users to fine-tune their content preferences, offering greater control over the app’s recommendation algorithm. 

As reported by The Verge, the update provides three key ways for users to shape their For You Page (FYP):

1. Content Preference Sliders: Users can now access “Content preferences > Manage topics” in the Settings and Privacy menu.
   
   This feature presents sliders for various topics such as “creative arts,” “current affairs,” and “humor.” By adjusting these sliders from their default middle position, users signal their desire for more or less content in specific categories.
   
2. Keyword and Hashtag Blocking: Building on existing features, users can block specific keywords or hashtags from appearing in their feeds. This tool allows for more precise content filtering.
   
3. FYP Reset Option: TikTok is currently testing a feature that enables users to reset their For You Page, starting fresh with a new content slate.

These tools expand upon TikTok’s “not interested” button, which aims to reduce similar content in users’ feeds.

The update provides insight into TikTok’s content categorization system. Notably, “dance” is classified as a distinct topic separate from other arts, reflecting the platform’s historical association with dance content.

Algorithm Transparency

The TikTok algorithm, known for its hyper-targeted content delivery, has often been described as opaque. This update represents a step towards transparency, giving users a glimpse into the platform’s content categorization and recommendation processes.

In April, American and German researchers revealed how TikTok’s short video format allows the platform to collect user data 600X faster than YouTube and improve its recommendation system.

Reuters recently reported that the process of separating millions of lines of code began in 2023, before TikTok’s legal fight against a potential U.S. ban. 

Hundreds of ByteDance and TikTok engineers worked to create an identical algorithm separate from anything related to the Chinese version of the app.