X Experiments Alternative Way To View Quote Posts

X is currently experimenting with an exciting new feature that will alter how users engage with quote posts on its platform.

X is testing an innovative method for users to interact with posts by clicking on a new “View quotes” quick link within the lower function bar options on updates.

As you can see in this example, some X users are now seeing a new “View quotes” in the expanded post view in the app.

This feature offers a different option to clicking the icon for repost, which allows users to quickly see how a post’s content is addressed beyond just direct responses.

A Brief Update with Potential Impact

While it is only a minor change in function, X’s new head of product, Nikita Bier, is convinced that this “View quotes” entry point will assist users in “surface some of the best content” within the application. 

Bier’s job is to find new ways to increase engagement by drawing on his experience in the field of viral trends and incorporating them into X’s long-running user interface.

A ‘Video First’ Platform

Despite the numerous major changes announced following Elon Musk’s acquisition in 2022, however, the X user experience has remained generally in line with its Twitter origins. After a drastic reduction in staff, X staff have primarily been releasing smaller but steady updates instead of massive overhauls.

While X is changing its positioning to become a “video first” platform despite Elon’s quest for “transforming the global town square.” Following Musk’s dream of being an “everything app” with payments at its core, the majority of recent updates are subtle, reflecting the criticisms Twitter faced prior to the acquisition.

Key Early Improvements

Nikita Bier, a well-known creator of developing viral trend apps, has been the catalyst for several initial improvements, including:

• Improved sharing of screenshots for X posts
• Updates to fix bugs in timeline refreshes
• Cashtags with more characters are now subject to increased limits.
• Updated communication flow for @grok

While a number of internal projects are currently in progress, these changes to the public sphere mark the beginning of Bier’s influence.

Looking Ahead

The “View quotes” feature is currently being tested on iOS, which could be a hint at larger UI adjustments aimed at enhancing the user’s engagement and interaction. 

Additionally, these incremental changes could lead to significant yet noticeable improvements in the overall user interface.

Personal Take

It is unclear what Bier’s strategy will do to X over the next few months; however, his past experience suggests that he may be able to change the platform’s dynamic.