Algorithm Code Release Pledge Raises
Transparency Questions has promised another X algorithm code release this week. Elon Musk says the move will boost transparency for users and advertisers. However, many observers remain cautious.
Over the weekend, Musk announced plans to open source X’s feed and ad algorithms. He said the company will publish updated code every four weeks.
As a result, developers could track how recommendations change over time. Musk made similar promises in the past. In 2023, X shared part of its feed algorithm on GitHub. However, the company never updated that code. Why Skepticism Still Exists The earlier release left out key ranking signals. In addition, many internal changes never appeared in the public files.
Therefore, critics questioned how transparent the move really was. Despite that, Musk often pointed to the release as proof of openness. Now, the company plans to try again. This time, the timing feels unusual. Reports suggest xAI now Controls X’s algorithm systems. The AI reportedly writes ranking code using massive computing power. As a result, even X engineers may not fully understand every decision.
Some experts worry this could expose bias or misinformation risks. Others point to recent complaints about falling reach on the platform. Those concerns grew after Anthropic cut off AI tools used by xAI. The disruption may have slowed algorithm updates. It could also have changed how posts rank in real time. Therefore, publishing the code now raises new questions. If X follows through, the release could offer real insight. It may show how posts gain visibility across the platform. For now, users and researchers are watching closely.
