Twitter recently announced some changes that are coming soon to the network, with one in particular that’s already not sitting well with longtime Twitter users.
Twitter’s timeline of real-time updates may instead by replaced by an algorithmically-controlled timeline that’s more akin to Facebook’s News Feed.
There’s no question that all social networks need to evolve in order to stay relevant, but is this evolution or devolution? I’ll let you decide.
Here’s a quote from Twitter’s announcement:
“… we’re experimenting with better ways to give you what you come to Twitter for: a snapshot of what’s happening. We can use information like who you follow and what you engage with to surface highlights of what you missed and show those to you as soon as you log back in or come back to the app.
We’re also working on ideas such as an instant, personalized timeline for new users who don’t want to spend time cultivating one on their own.”
If this potential change doesn’t sit well with you, note that they specifically say “new users”, meaning current Twitter users may be able to opt out of the change if they prefer their timeline the way it has always been.
However, there will still be some changes for current users. For instance, Twitter details plans to surface relevant tweets based on your particular interests, which means you may eventually see tweets from people you don’t even follow.
There was no timeframe for when these changes will be rolled out, other than the company saying they are “picking up the pace” over the coming months.
Change can be good for a company, but is this the kind of change Twitter needs in order to survive and thrive? I’m interested to hear your thoughts.
Other announced changes include the ability to record, edit, and share videos natively on Twitter — and the ability to share and discuss tweets via direct messages.
