Hajra Naz
TikTok just dropped some new tools to help you take more control over what you see on your “For You” page.
Let’s be honest — the algorithm is good. It knows what you like. But sometimes, it shows stuff you don’t want. Now, you’ve got more say in what shows up.
Manage Topics Is Now Available to Everyone
First up, TikTok is rolling out the “Manage Topics” feature for all users. You’ll find it under Settings > Content Preferences.
It’s simple: You’ll see a list of topic sliders — things like travel, sports, nature, and creative arts. You can tell TikTok which topics you care about and which ones you don’t. This won’t block topics completely, but it will change how often you see them.
To be clear, these are broad categories. So even if you turn one down, you might still see some related content. Still, it’s a good step for people who want more control over what fills their feed.
This tool’s been tested with a small group since last year, but now, everyone gets access.
New Smart Keyword Filters
Next up: TikTok is adding Smart Keyword Filters powered by AI. This one’s more direct.
Don’t want to see certain content? Just type in keywords or hashtags related to what you don’t like, and TikTok will try to block those videos from showing up at all.
Let’s say you’re sick of home renovation clips. Add “renovation” as a blocked keyword, and the algorithm will avoid showing you those kinds of videos.
This tool could also help filter out harmful trends. For example, TikTok recently cracked down on content related to the “SkinnyTok” trend, now blocked from search results after pressure from European regulators.
So this gives users a chance to clean up their feed and protect their experience.
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More Changes Behind the Scenes
TikTok also says it’s tightening up how it handles harmful content. The app is updating its content standards and limiting the reach of videos it considers not safe for general viewing. That includes content around extreme workouts or diet challenges that could cause harm if seen too often.
We don’t have all the details yet on how TikTok plans to flag or label these videos, but the goal is to tone down exposure without banning everything outright.
New Guide to the Algorithm
Lastly, TikTok released a new online guide that breaks down how its “For You” feed works. It also explains how users can influence their own experience using tools like these.
Will People Use These Tools?
Let’s be real: Most users probably won’t bother.
We’ve gotten used to letting algorithms run the show. We just scroll, watch, and trust the system to “get us.” Hardly anyone manually adjusts their feed these days — and TikTok knows that.
Still, for those who want more control — or who’ve been frustrated by the same types of videos popping up — these features are a win.
