If you used Twitter prior to 2016 you would remember that the timelines used to be in a non-algorithmic, reverse-chronological order. It decided to shift to an algorithmic timeline in 2016 with “In case you missed it” roundups and suggested tweets based on what it thought you might want to catch up on when you were away from Twitter. Many Twitter users didn’t like this change so they will appreciate that the company is now bringing back the pure chronological timeline.
Twitter has confirmed that it’s now going to start testing a “way to switch between a timeline of Tweets that are most relevant for you and a timeline of the latest Tweets.” It’s thus offering them more options on how they want their timeline to be displayed.
Users who uncheck the “Show the best tweets first” box in the settings now will get the pure reverse-chronological timeline. When this setting is turned off, users won’t get the roundups and suggested tweets as well. They will be able to use Twitter the way it was originally designed.
It’s not doing away with the algorithmic timeline but will now be providing better options that will help users strike a balance between the two experiences. This easy and accessible way to switch between the two will be rolled out in the coming weeks, according to Twitter.