Is X's newly released algorithm code truly transparent?

Experts suggest that X's recently published algorithm code is a 'redacted' version, which may offer a pretense of transparency rather than enabling genuine oversight or auditing.

How does X's new algorithm differ from the previous version?

The new algorithm version heavily relies on a Grok-like large language model for ranking posts, shifting from the previous system's reliance on hard-coded metrics like likes and shares.

Why is the training data for X's algorithm not publicly available?

Information regarding the training data used for X's algorithm has not been disclosed, leading to concerns about potential biases that could affect the model's output.

Home / Technology / X's Algorithm: Transparent or Trapped?

X's Algorithm: Transparent or Trapped?

4 Feb

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Summary

X's recent algorithm code release is considered a redacted version.
New algorithm version heavily relies on a Grok-like LLM for ranking.
Information on training data and interaction weighting is excluded.

X's recent publication of its 'for you' algorithm code, lauded by Elon Musk as a victory for transparency, faces scrutiny from researchers. Experts argue that the released code is a 'redacted' version, providing a superficial appearance of openness without enabling meaningful oversight or auditing.

The core innovation in the latest algorithm version is its reliance on a Grok-like large language model for ranking posts. This marks a significant shift from the previous iteration, which used hard-coded metrics like likes and shares. Now, the model's assessment of user engagement likelihood influences post ranking, increasing opacity.

Further complicating transparency efforts, X has omitted details previously shared in 2023 regarding the weighting of user interactions. Citing security reasons, the company has excluded data on how factors like replies or shares contribute to a post's visibility. This redaction hinders a complete understanding of the algorithm's mechanics.