Social media users could opt out of the algorithm if Australian government has its way – but that’s a big if

If Australia’s proposed “Digital Responsibility Act” is passed, social media users will have the right to choose whether to participate in platform algorithm recommendations. The act aims to allow users to make independent decisions between an “infinite scrolling” information stream and personalized feeds that only display content from friends. However, the implementation of the act depends on the cooperation of relevant technology companies. Even if the law is enacted, tech companies may still use evasive tactics, causing the original intention of the act to fail and failing to effectively curb users’ addiction to information streams. Currently, the progress of the act depends on its passage and the enforcement attitude of companies.