Facebook's new algorithm: Showing users more unfollowed content

Facebook is likely to start testing 'Explore' tab, which sounds relatable to Instagram feature
An undated image displaying Facebook logo on a laptop. — Pexels

An undated image displaying Facebook logo on a laptop. — Pexels

Facebook on Friday, introduced a host of updates to its platform, many of which aimed at pushing users outside of their social circle of friends and family.

Among the upgrades are new tabs being integrated into Facebook that are focused on providing more content for users, including recommendations based on a person’s location. 

A new “Local” tab is said to gather content from other Facebook surfaces like the resale platform Marketplace, local groups, and events — basically what sounds like Facebook’s version of Nextdoor.

It is claimed that the Local tab is being checked in 10 United States (US) cities including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Austin, Texas, and more. 

Moreover, Facebook would start testing an “Explore” tab, which sounds relatable to the Instagram feature of the same name — a personalised page — showing recommended photos, videos, and other content that is rare from person to person.

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The company stated that the Explore tab will rely on a user’s interests and will show content from “real people and expert communities” like travel tips and DIY tutorials.

Meanwhile, the new tab focuses on TikTok. Facebook is said to integrate a full-screen video feed that resembles TikTok’s for Your page, pulling together short, long, and live videos in one place.

In addition, Messenger is receiving a significant upgrade in the form of Messenger Communities, a feature that mirrors Slack or Discord. With the help of Communities, users can create various chatrooms based on different topics that fall under a larger umbrella.