tech
May 5, 2026
Instagram will punish lack of originality in content; we explain what to do to avoid losing reach
Instagram will prioritize original content over photos and carousels in recommendations, introducing protections that will penalize creators who reuse internet content...
TL;DR
- Instagram is shifting its recommendation algorithm to favor original content.
- This change now includes photos and carousels, in addition to Reels.
- Accounts that mainly re-upload others' content without significant creative input will lose eligibility for recommendations.
- Original content is defined as something fully created by the user or reflecting their unique perspective.
- Edited third-party content is acceptable if significant improvements are made.