China’s Weibo Enhances Algorithms to Uphold ‘Public Values’ Amid Regulatory Pressure
Chinese microblogging giant Weibo has recently made adjustments to its algorithms to better reflect what it terms as “public values” amidst a broader crackdown on tech companies in the country. Weibo, often referred to as China’s equivalent of Twitter, also known as X, announced that it has refined the algorithms for its Hot Search section to reinforce the public attributes and correct value orientation of the trending topics list. This move comes as part of a broader effort by tech firms in China to address regulatory concerns related to algorithm issues.
Algorithms play a crucial role in shaping the recommendation functions of various apps and websites, including social media platforms like Weibo. The platform stated that the algorithm adjustments were prompted by user feedback indicating that some topics lacked sufficient value for public discourse. To address this, Weibo has introduced a “public index” to conduct a thorough evaluation of the public attributes of trending content, aiming to enhance the quality of discussions on the platform.
Weibo has faced criticism in the past for an overabundance of trending topics related to celebrities, leading to concerns about the platform's content moderation. This recent algorithm adjustment is part of a broader initiative by Chinese authorities to tackle issues with algorithms on online platforms, such as filter bubbles and unfair pricing strategies that target specific user groups. Major internet platforms in China have committed to rectifying these algorithm-related issues by a deadline set for February 14.
In a similar vein, Douyin, the Chinese counterpart of ByteDance’s TikTok, has announced plans to establish a safety centre by 2025 to enhance transparency in its recommendation system and combat misinformation and online violence. RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu and dubbed China’s version of Instagram, is seeking public input on ways to improve its algorithms. These efforts align with a government-led campaign to regulate Big Tech companies and their influence on online content and opinions through algorithmic mechanisms.
Weibo, a popular platform for social media discussions in mainland China, has often found itself under scrutiny by Chinese authorities, particularly regarding its Hot Search section. The feature has been suspended multiple times and subjected to rectifications due to content that did not align with government values.
Weibo adjusts algorithms for Hot Search section to enhance public values
Chinese tech firms under regulatory pressure to address algorithm issues
Douyin and RedNote also taking steps to improve transparency and combat misinformation
Source: SCMP