Today I was lucky enough to attend a Meta Parenting Village creator get-together, where we learnt about Instagram, how the algorithm works and some of the features creators should be taking advantage of.
I’ve been creating content for around 10 years, and even I walked away with some new information!
Here are some of my biggest takeaways.
1. You can influence your Instagram algorithm
One of the most interesting features discussed was Your Algorithm, introduced in June 2026.
Instagram uses multiple ranking systems to work out what content you’re interested in. You can now influence your recommendations by choosing topics you want to see more or less of.
Meta also spoke about making these systems increasingly personalised and responsive over the coming years.
2. Trial Reels are worth using
Trial Reels are a fantastic way to test content with people who don’t already follow you.
If you’re experimenting with a new style of content, topic or hook, this is definitely a feature worth exploring.
3. Consistency matters, but don’t forget carousels
Around 10 Reels per month was suggested as a useful growth benchmark.
However, carousels are still incredibly valuable, particularly for content people want to save and revisit.
Adding music to carousels can also help with distribution, so it’s worth experimenting with.
4. Instagram Edits has some great insights
The Edits app isn’t just for creating videos.
Its audience insights allow you to compare up to three Reels, including views, watch time, follows and interactions.
You can also explore audience information and export insights as a PDF, which could be particularly useful when pitching to brands.
5. Your Instagram profile is becoming more customisable
You can reorder your profile grid and pin important content, helping you create a profile that reflects your niche.
Meta also encouraged creators to clearly identify their niche through their on-screen text and captions.
6. Other features worth knowing about
A few other interesting things we discussed:
- Instants: A more spontaneous, less polished content format, particularly popular with younger audiences aged 18–25.
- Rage Shake: Shake your phone to access the option to report an Instagram problem.
- Threads: Another platform to consider for cross-posting content.
- Facebook: Worth having a creator page and cross-posting your content.
- Long-form video: Meta discussed opportunities for longer videos, potentially ranging from three minutes to an hour, as well as short-form series.
- AI assistants: We also heard about Muse, an AI agent designed to help with everyday tasks such as emails, admin and planning.
My biggest takeaway
Social media is constantly evolving, and even after 10 years of creating content, there’s always something new to learn.
For me, the biggest message was to keep experimenting, understand your audience and use the tools available rather than getting too caught up in chasing the algorithm.
I love attending events like these because there’s always something valuable to take away and share with other creators.
These notes reflect information discussed at the Meta creator event in October 2026. Some features may still be rolling out, and future developments are subject to change.
