Across major social networks like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, long-time users are expressing frustration over what they describe as a “declining experience.” Many blame excessive ads, irrelevant recommendations, and algorithmic manipulation that prioritize engagement over authenticity. Once vibrant online communities now feel cluttered with sponsored posts and low-quality content.
Shift from Social Interaction to Monetization
Experts say the root cause of this perceived “degradation” lies in platforms’ increasing push for revenue generation. Features once designed to encourage genuine social connections have evolved into mechanisms for ad targeting, creator monetization, and brand partnerships. This commercial pivot has left everyday users feeling sidelined in favor of profit.
AI and Automation Reshape Online Feeds
The rise of AI-driven recommendations is another major factor. While intended to personalize feeds, users complain that algorithms often amplify sensational or polarizing content, diminishing the quality of discussions. Some users note that their timelines now feel “robotic,” filled with repetitive or AI-generated posts rather than human voices.
Creators and Influencers Feel the Impact Too
Not only users, but also creators are finding it harder to maintain engagement. Platforms like YouTube and Instagram have changed how their algorithms surface content, often prioritizing short-form videos like Reels or Shorts. This shift forces creators to adapt quickly or risk losing visibility.
Nostalgia for the ‘Old Internet’
A growing number of users are reminiscing about the earlier days of social media — simpler, more chronological, and less commercial. Platforms like Reddit and Discord, while not immune to corporate pressures, have become sanctuaries for those seeking authentic interactions without constant algorithmic interference.
Will Regulation or Competition Bring Change?
Industry analysts suggest that only competition from new decentralized platforms or stricter regulations could reverse this trend. Projects like Bluesky, Mastodon, and Threads offer glimpses of alternative models, but it remains to be seen whether they can truly restore social media’s lost charm.