X (formerly Twitter) has rolled out a major update that changes how users see posts in their timelines. The platform is now using the Grok AI ranking system to reorder the Following feed based on predicted relevance instead of showing posts in chronological order.
If you rely on X to follow breaking news, live sports, or real-time updates, this change can impact how information appears—and how quickly you see it.
This guide explains what the new Grok algorithm does, why X introduced it, how it affects your feed, and how you can still switch back to a chronological timeline.
It's a complete tutorial + news overview designed to keep you updated and in control of your X experience.
What Is X's New Grok-Driven Ranking System?
X (formerly Twitter) has launched a major timeline update that replaces the traditional chronological Following feed with an AI-powered ranking system built on Grok, the platform's in-house model.
Instead of showing posts in time order, X now uses signals such as:
Your past interactions
Engagement behavior
Topics you frequently follow
Similar interests across your network
This marks one of the biggest shifts in the platform's history, moving X further toward an algorithm-first experience similar to TikTok or Instagram.
For users who rely on X for breaking news, live sports, and real-time updates, this change can significantly alter how information appears.
Why X Introduced the Grok AI Timeline Update
X says the new AI-driven ranking system aims to:
Surface more "relevant" content
Increase user engagement
Help users discover new accounts
Provide a more personalized home feed
Elon Musk also confirmed that the Grok ranking system is now enabled by default for all users running the latest version of the X app.
The app now auto-opens to "For You"
Even if you previously used the Following feed, X will now push you back to the For You feed when restarting the app.
This aligns X with platforms that prioritize discovery-driven feeds over chronological timelines.
How the New AI Ranking System Affects Your Feed
1. Real-Time Updates May Feel Delayed
Because content is now sorted by predicted interest rather than timestamp, users who:
Follow many accounts
Track breaking news
Watch live sports on X
may notice that posts appear out of sequence or less immediately.
2. Potential Impact on Political and Viral Content
Studies show that even small boosts to partisan or aggressive posts can intensify negative feelings between groups.
Since the Following feed is no longer strictly chronological, algorithmic amplification could influence:
Political discourse
Viral talking points
Communities that already feel polarized
3. Power Users Will Feel the Change the Most
This update particularly affects:
Journalists
Live-event commentators
Sports communities
Users following 200+ accounts
How to Switch Back to a Chronological Feed on X
Despite the default AI ranking, X still allows users to manually return to a real-time chronological timeline.
Step-by-Step: Restore the Chronological Following Feed
1. Open the X App
Tap the Following tab at the top of the home screen.
2. Open the Sorting Menu
Look for the sorting icon (usually top right).
3. Choose "Latest Posts" or "Chronological Order"
Depending on your region, X may label it differently.
4. Repeat When Needed
X may revert your view when reopening the app, so you may need to switch back manually each time.
Pros and Cons of the Grok AI Timeline
Advantages
More personalized feed
Higher discovery of new accounts
Increased engagement
Matches modern social platform standards
Disadvantages
Weaker real-time accuracy
More viral or sensational posts
Possible unwanted political amplification
Loss of X's signature "live feed" identity
If X Is No Longer the Best for Real-Time Information, What Are the Alternatives?
Users looking for real-time updates are increasingly exploring:
Threads — smoother interface, rising adoption
Bluesky — strong among journalists and news communities
Telegram Channels — fast, broadcast-style updates
WhatsApp Channels — expanding globally as news hubs
If X continues prioritizing AI ranking, these platforms may grow as real-time data sources.
Final Thoughts
X's new Grok-driven ranking system marks a significant shift in how users experience the platform. While the AI-powered feed can improve personalization, it also changes how quickly real-time updates appear.
By understanding how the algorithm works—and knowing how to restore your chronological feed—you can maintain control over your X timeline and tailor it to your needs.
