Breaking Free From the Social Media Trap: Instagram Algorithms and TikTok’s Future

Should we adapt or explore new ways to connect?


Exploring the possibilities of breaking free from the social media trap has become increasingly urgent. With Instagram introducing a new algorithm and TikTok facing a ban in the US, one must ask: does it make sense to keep adapting to the strategies of tech giants, or would it be healthier to seek alternative ways to connect?

Although we don’t use TikTok, we can’t deny that the new Instagram layout is a major disappointment. We’ve never been ones to chase the algorithm, preferring instead to use social media as a tool for fostering genuine connections. 

That said, let’s take a closer look at what’s been happening in the social media landscape recently.

Why Instagram’s algorithm changes are problematic


The recent Instagram update has sparked significant concerns among creators and users alike. Here’s why:

1 – Excessive Emphasis on Video Content
Instagram’s new algorithm highlights its ongoing attempt to mimic TikTok, favouring vertical video content. This shift burdens creators who specialise in static content, such as photos and graphics, as the algorithm prioritises 9:16 videos, reducing the organic visibility of other formats.

2 – Disruption of Feed Harmony
For those who have curated cohesive feeds based on the 1:1 ratio, the update is highly disruptive. Truncated posts lose their visual coherence, and there’s no way to retroactively adjust previously published content to fit the new layout.

How the TikTok ban exposes social media’s fragility


TikTok’s brief shutdown on Sunday, coupled with its uncertain future, reveals just how delicate the fragmented social media landscape truly is. The ByteDance-owned platform temporarily disabled its app in the United States to comply with a divest-or-ban mandate. Although web browser access was restored for some US users, the mobile app remained largely inaccessible.

These shifts in the social media ecosystem highlight the growing tension between platforms prioritising fleeting trends and users striving to preserve their creative integrity. Meanwhile, many simply follow along blindly, seldom pausing to question the impact. 

Finding healthier alternatives to connect


Breaking free from the social media trap has never felt more urgent. Our lives, data, and connections are increasingly controlled by a few tech giants. When they change their strategies, we bear the consequences. If they shut down, we risk losing everything. Is this truly a safe or sustainable environment?

Rather than continuously adapting to their ever-shifting priorities, we believe it’s time to explore healthier, more meaningful ways to connect. The power to create a better digital future lies in our hands.


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