How has the Instagram algorithm changed in 2019?

We need to talk about the Instagram algorithm.

And if just seeing the word “algorithm” freaks you out, we get it.

Many brands were absolutely rocked by the 2018 Facebook algorithm update that resulted in a nosedive of organic reach.

Meanwhile, you may have noticed that your Instagram content hasn’t scored the same engagement as it did in the past.

This has rightfully left brands wondering: what’s the heck is going on with the Instagram algorithm? Are we going to see a repeat of last year’s Facebook frenzy?

In this guide, we’ll break down the state of the Instagram algorithm as we know it. We’ll likewise dive into some specific strategies and tactics to ensure that you’re maximizing your organic reach as the algorithm continues to

To better understand the present day Instagram algorithm, let’s turn back the clock.


In 2016, Instagram announced that users’ feeds would prioritize “the moments you care about.”

This signaled the end of the old reverse-chronological feed an adoption of an algorithmic feed similar to Facebook.

The same sort of sentiment was echoed by Facebook’s 2018 pledge to “put friends and family first,” favoring personal content over marketing content. Around the same time, Instagram themselves announced improvements to users’ feeds that gives priority to fresh, timely posts.

The specifics of this update and subsequent changes were vague beyond the introduction of the “You’re All Caught Up” notification to let you know your feed is up-to-date.

Now, let’s fast-forward to the present.

In January 2019, Instagram acknowledged the growing public concern over their algorithm and broke their silence in a series of tweets.

Specifically, Instagram stated that what shows up first in your feed is primarily based on your own activity.

And that’s where we stand today.

Satisfied? Confused? Somewhere in-between?

Understandably, this explanation has left brands with plenty of questions on how they can maximize their engagement.

The short answer? Come up with a content strategy that gives the Instagram algorithm exactly what it wants.