X's Algorithm Will Be Open-But Can Users Really See What's Happening?

Elon Musk announced on Saturday that X will make its new algorithm open source in seven days, including the code used to determine what posts and advertisements are recommended to users. The algorithm will be updated every four weeks with comprehensive developer notes to show changes.

Musk did not explain the specific reasons for the open-source release, but the move comes amid ongoing regulatory pressure and public scrutiny over the platform's content moderation practices. According to reports, the company has faced criticism from users and regulators for how content is distributed and managed.

The open-source announcement follows recent complaints from users that they were receiving fewer posts from people they follow. In October, Musk acknowledged a significant bug in the platform's 'For You' algorithm and promised a fix.

Why Did This Happen?

European regulators have intensified scrutiny of X, focusing on issues such as misinformation, inadequate content moderation, and lack of transparency. In July 2025, French prosecutors investigated the platform for suspected algorithmic bias and fraudulent data extraction.

In response, X has been incorporating more artificial intelligence into its recommendation algorithm, using Musk's AI chatbot, Grok. The company aims to make the recommendation engine 'purely AI' and plans to share updates about every two weeks.

Market and Analyst Reactions

The announcement comes at a time of heightened regulatory and public concern over X's operations. European regulators have extended a retention order related to the platform's algorithms and the dissemination of illegal content until the end of 2026.

Grok, X's AI chatbot, has also faced regulatory challenges due to its generation of nonconsensual sexualized content. U.S. senators have asked Apple and Google to remove X and Grok from app stores over deepfake issues.

Analysts are watching how this move affects user trust and regulatory pressures. X has previously resisted sharing its algorithms, calling some investigations 'politically motivated.' However, the recent open-source announcement may signal a shift in strategy.