Australia To Let Social Media Users ‘Opt Out’ of Algorithm-Based Feeds

Australia is proposing the “My Feed, My Way” initiative that would force social media platforms to let users over 16 turn off algorithmic recommendations and instead see only posts from people and creators they follow. Platforms that fail to comply could face fines of up to $79 million. The legislation, which is being drafted and released Tuesday for targeted consultation, would require platforms to send notifications to new and existing users so they can choose their default feed. […] The measures, set to be introduced to the Parliament of Australia this year, will also require AI chatbots, online games and other digital services to take action to protect under-18s from addictive design features. “This is not about giving government control. It’s about giving people control. It’s about putting choice back into the hands of Australians online,” said Prime Minister Anthony at a press conference on Tuesday.

“This is sensible, pragmatic, practical reform. It gives users choice, and it will hold the big tech companies responsible for inaction.”