This move by Meta comes ahead of the enforcement of the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, set to take effect in 2024. The legislation aims to increase transparency regarding recommendation algorithms for online services such as Facebook and Instagram. It will mandate the provision of chronological feeds and prohibit targeted ads based on factors like religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or political affiliation. Meta has previously introduced an updated version of its “Why am I seeing this ad?” tool, offering users more transparency on how their activities influence ad-matching software.
With the release of these card systems, Meta takes a proactive step towards transparency, allowing users to gain a deeper understanding of the algorithms governing their social media feeds. As digital platforms face increased scrutiny, Meta’s efforts aim to foster trust and provide users with greater control over their online experiences.