X reveals the formula for going viral on its platform
X released the source code for its algorithm on Thursday. The details reveal how posts end up on the For You page.
X has revealed the code for the algorithm that determines the content shown on its "For You" page. The code uses positive and negative weights based on user reactions to posts. Weighted factors include likes, shares, replies, quotes, follows, reposts, reports, mutes, "not interested" interactions, and blocks. Greater emphasis is placed on actions indicating a positive user experience, such as sharing or replying to posts.
In contrast, negative feedback like reported content carries significantly stronger negative weights. The code also details how X classifies content and accounts into categories like spam or adult material, which further influence post visibility. A new feature called "Under the Hood" allows selected users to see aggregated information about labels applied to their accounts and posts, offering transparency into visibility limitations.
This open-source release follows Elon Musk's commitment to increase transparency on the platform, with Musk stating that the move aims to improve fairness and seek feedback for improvement.
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