Introduction to TikTok’s Algorithm

We may never fully comprehend the intricacies of TikTok’s "For You" algorithm or the rationale behind its tendency to lead users down specific rabbit holes. However, the company is taking steps to make it a bit easier for users to control the topics that are likely to appear in their recommendations.

Managing Topics

TikTok is introducing a "manage topics" setting within the app, aiming to add more personalization to users’ feeds. Initially offered in the United States last year, this setting features a set of sliders that enable users to specify how often they want particular types of videos to appear in their recommendations. The sliders cover approximately a dozen general topics, including nature, food and drink, fashion and beauty, and pets. For each interest, users can adjust the slider to "see more" or "see less."

Limitations and Influences

TikTok notes that these in-app controls "won’t eliminate any topics entirely," meaning that the sliders won’t completely prevent certain content, such as sports, from appearing in a user’s feed. However, the company states that the setting "can influence how often they’re recommended as your interests evolve over time."

Expanded Keyword Filtering

For users seeking more granular control over their feeds, particularly when it comes to blocking specific types of content, TikTok is expanding its keyword filtering option. This feature allows users to choose specific keywords they wish to avoid. The app will now utilize AI to make these filters more intelligent by adding extra keywords for similar content. For instance, if a user chooses to filter "remodeling," the app may also add "renovations" to their filtered words. Additionally, the app may automatically block alternate spellings of topics, such as "cat" or "c@t." The company expects these "smart filters" to become increasingly precise as more users utilize them over time and plans to eventually allow users to add up to 200 keywords.

Availability

Both features are currently available in TikTok’s settings, within the app’s "content" preferences section.