Meta Platforms is introducing a new feed customization tool on its Threads platform named "Dear Algo." The feature uses AI to let users temporarily shape the content shown in their feeds by posting a public request that starts with "Dear Algo" followed by the user's instruction.
Under the new mechanism, a user could write a post such as "Dear algo, show me more posts about podcasts" to nudge the platform toward surfacing additional posts on that subject. Those adjustments to a user's feed persist for a limited window of three days, designed to let people tune into conversations that are timely or of short-term interest.
Threads users may also adopt another person's preferences by reposting that person's "Dear Algo" request. Reposting applies the same content preferences to the reposter's own feed for the same three-day period, giving users a way to quickly mirror requests they find useful.
Meta frames the feature as a response to changing user interests - for example, wanting more coverage during a live sports event or wanting fewer posts about a television show a user does not follow. The company has activated Dear Algo in four countries: the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Meta has indicated plans to expand availability to additional markets at an unspecified later date.
The functionality requires users to create public posts that follow the specified format beginning with the phrase "Dear Algo," followed by the requested topic or adjustment. The three-day duration and the ability to repost others' requests are central mechanics of how the feature operates on Threads.
No additional changes to moderation, algorithmic methods beyond the user-facing request flow, or commercial details were presented alongside the product announcement. The rollout is currently limited geographically to the four named countries, and further expansion was described only as planned.
Summary
Meta's Threads platform now supports an AI-powered, post-driven feed control called "Dear Algo," enabling temporary topic-level customization of individual users' feeds for three days, with the option to reuse others' requests. The feature is available in the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom, with broader distribution planned.