New Algorithm, New Rules: Here’s What You Need to Know.
The algorithm — just when you think you’ve cracked it, it changes again!
Social media algorithms are constantly evolving to improve user experience and prioritise different types of content — but that can leave creators and brands wondering what still works (and what definitely doesn’t).
In this post, we’re unpacking the key differences between the old and new algorithms across major platforms. From shifting engagement priorities to new ranking signals, here’s what’s really changed — and how to make the latest updates work for you, not against you.
Let’s get started…
The Old Algorithm:
Not too long ago, short-form video reigned supreme. Reels were the key to rapid growth, consistently outperforming static posts and carousels. The algorithm heavily favoured high-energy, tightly edited clips that grabbed attention in the first few seconds. Audiences were drawn to crisp transitions, trending audio, and picture-perfect visuals — and the more time you spent fine-tuning your edits, the better your results usually were. Even Stories followed a formula: posting just once every 24 hours often delivered the highest views, keeping your audience curious enough to check back without oversaturating their feed.
Hashtags also played a starring role in discoverability, helping creators and brands reach specific audiences and expand their online communities. Back then, follower count mattered more than anything — the more people who hit that “follow” button, the more eyes you could expect on every post. In short, success was all about polish, precision, and keeping up with the fast-paced scroll of perfectly packaged content.
The Old Algorithm (Overview)
Short-form ruled the feed. Reels were the ultimate growth hack — they received significantly more reach than static posts or carousels.
Polish = performance. Highly edited, well-produced, and perfectly timed videos were favoured by both audiences and the algorithm.
One Story was enough. Posting a single Story every 24 hours often delivered the most views, keeping your audience intrigued without overwhelming them.
Hashtags did the heavy lifting. They helped boost discoverability and connect you with your ideal audience.
Followers mattered. A bigger following meant bigger reach — algorithms rewarded established accounts with wider visibility.
Consistency and trends were key. Staying active, using trending sounds, and posting polished content regularly kept you on the algorithm’s good side.
The New Algorithm:
Fast forward to now, and the game has completely changed. Social media platforms have shifted their priorities, focusing less on perfect production and more on genuine connection. The glossy, over-edited era is taking a back seat to content that feels real, relatable, and conversational. Now, it’s not about who looks the best online — it’s about who can hold attention, spark engagement, and create meaningful moments with their audience.
The new algorithm favours consistency, authenticity, and storytelling over polish. Short-form video is still important, but it’s no longer the only path to reach and growth. Raw, unfiltered clips — think behind-the-scenes moments, quick updates, or unscripted conversations — are performing just as well (if not better) than curated reels. Story performance has also evolved: instead of posting once a day, regular updates throughout the day help keep engagement steady and your profile active.
Hashtags aren’t the powerhouse they once were; instead, the algorithm now leans on engagement signals like watch time, saves, shares, and meaningful comments to determine what content deserves a boost. And follower count? It’s no longer the make-or-break factor it used to be. Even small accounts can go viral if their content hits the right note. In this new landscape, it’s less about showing off and more about showing up.
The New Algorithm (Overview)
Authenticity wins. Audiences are craving real, relatable content over picture-perfect production — raw beats refined.
Storytelling matters. Platforms now reward content that keeps people watching longer and encourages meaningful engagement (comments, saves, shares).
Consistency over frequency. It’s less about posting constantly and more about showing up with valuable, intentional content that serves your audience.
Followers ≠ guaranteed reach. The focus has shifted to engagement quality — even small accounts can go viral if their content connects.
Hashtags are out, context is in. While hashtags still help, algorithms are now smarter at reading captions, keywords, and on-screen text to understand your topic.
Community signals count. DMs, story replies, and saves tell the algorithm your audience actually cares — and that boosts your visibility more than ever.
Video is still king… but not the only one. Reels still perform well, but carousels, photo dumps, and thought-led captions are making a strong comeback.
Wrapping It Up.
The algorithm will always keep evolving — and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While the old rules rewarded polish and production, the new era of social media is all about presence, personality, and purpose. Whether you’re a business, a creator, or just someone trying to grow your online community, the key is to stay adaptable. Test, tweak, and pay attention to what genuinely connects with your audience.
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy anymore — and that’s the beauty of it. Authenticity wins, creativity counts, and consistency is still your best friend. So don’t chase the algorithm; learn to dance with it. 💃
Staying ahead of social media updates doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team keeps up with every shift, so you don’t have to. Reach out today and let’s build a content plan that works with the algorithm, not against it.