X open sources ranking algorithm with shadowban transparency tool
Original: X open sources its ranking algorithm, letting users see if they’ve been ‘shadowbanned’
Why This Matters
Open sourcing a major platform's full ranking algorithm sets a significant precedent for algorithmic transparency in social media.
X announced on August 13, 2026 that it is open sourcing its 'For You' timeline algorithm and core ranking engine on GitHub under the Apache v2 license, while also rolling out an 'Under the Hood' transparency tool letting users check if their accounts or posts have been affected by ranking systems.
X is significantly expanding its open source codebase to include its 'For You' timeline algorithm, core ranking engine, model configuration, filters, and signal-weighting parameters — making the codebase roughly 10 to 15 times larger than before. The code is available on GitHub under the Apache v2 license. X VP of Product Keith Coleman told TechCrunch the release includes 'the core ranking code that pulls posts and ranks them for any given user,' as well as systems filtering rule-violating content, some of which can be run externally. Alongside the code release, X is launching a new 'Under the Hood' settings page where users who have posted 10 or more times in the past month can download a JSON file showing any labels applied to their account or posts over the past calendar month. The tool will initially be limited to a pilot group of accounts at least one year old before a broader rollout. External researchers were given preview access and successfully trained and ran X's Phoenix scoring system using the open source code. Developers can also submit pull requests to propose algorithm improvements, which X engineers will evaluate for potential inclusion.