From the introduction of Circles to the ability to lurk on people's likes, Twitter has seen a variety of features come and go since its launch in 2007. However, as users flock to other platforms, including the new Bluesky, they are left mourning the loss of features that made the microblogging platform unique. Despite owner Elon Musk's claims of focusing on improving Communities and group DMs, many users still long for the days of Circles and the joy of lurking on others' likes.
Twitter's Lost Features: From Circles to Lurking, Users Mourn What's Gone
Twitter, the popular microblogging platform, has seen a multitude of features come and go since its inception in 2007. While some changes have been welcomed by users, others have left them longing for the past. Here's a glimpse into the features that Twitter has bid farewell to and the impact they had on the platform.
Circles: A Short-Lived Attempt at Privacy
Launched in 2015, Circles allowed users to group their followers into categories and share tweets with specific groups only. This feature aimed to enhance privacy and foster more intimate conversations. However, it failed to gain widespread adoption and was eventually discontinued in 2018.
Lurking: A Controversial Past Time
Prior to 2019, Twitter allowed users to view the "likes" of other accounts without them knowing. This practice, known as "lurking," enabled users to observe the interests and activities of others without actively engaging with them. However, concerns about privacy led to the removal of this feature in 2019.
Other Discontinued Features
Besides Circles and lurking, Twitter has also removed several other features over the years, including:
Users Express Nostalgia and Concerns
The loss of these features has sparked a wave of nostalgia and concern among Twitter users. Many have taken to social media to express their longing for the days when they could share tweets with specific groups or discreetly observe others' likes. They fear that the platform is moving away from its unique features and towards a more homogenized experience.
Top 5 FAQs Related to Twitter's Lost Features
Conclusion
Twitter's lost features have left an imprint on the platform's history and its user base. While some may argue that these changes were necessary to enhance usability or privacy, others believe that they have diluted the platform's distinctive character. As Twitter continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether the platform will heed user feedback and bring back some of its beloved features.
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