Tumblr Unveils New Web Browser Look, Drawing Inspiration from X
Tumblr has officially rolled out a new look for its web browser, inspired by the popular social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). After testing the new navigation interface with select users over the past month, Tumblr aims to make it easier for both new and existing users to understand and explore the platform.
The revamped design brings the navigation bar to the left side of the screen, resembling X’s layout. Additionally, the compose button has been relocated to the bottom left, similar to X’s placement. Tumblr believes that these changes will enhance user experience and encourage more exploration of the platform.
In a blog post, Tumblr acknowledged that previous updates often introduced new icons without proper explanation, leading to confusion among users. By incorporating text labels into the navigation where space allows, Tumblr hopes to address this issue. The addition of text labels has already resulted in more users venturing into previously unexplored areas of the platform.
During the testing phase, Tumblr gathered feedback from users and made several tweaks to improve the new look. These adjustments include moving settings subpages (such as Account and Dashboard) back to the right side of the settings page instead of keeping them in an expandable item on the left. The company also resolved issues with messaging windows on smaller screens and streamlined the Account section for easier access to blogs.
Looking ahead, Tumblr is exploring the possibility of a collapsible version of the navigation and optimizing screen space for users with larger screens. The company is also working on improving access to accounts and sideblogs.
The decision to revamp its web browser comes after Tumblr experienced an influx of new users following Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter (now X) in November. Many users sought alternatives to Twitter, leading to a 58% increase in iOS app downloads and a 57% increase for Android users in the first week of November, according to Tumblr CEO Matt Mullenweg.
Data from data.ai revealed that Tumblr gained 880,000 new installs across iOS and Android in November, compared to 450,000 and 500,000 in September and October, respectively. However, download numbers returned to standard levels in the following months, averaging around 400,000 to 500,000 per month.
With users still searching for Twitter alternatives, Tumblr aims to attract new users by adopting a design similar to X. However, not all Tumblr users are pleased with the change, and many have expressed their dissatisfaction on X.
These updates come shortly after Mullenweg disclosed that Tumblr is currently spending approximately $30 million more than it generates annually. This financial situation is not surprising given Tumblr’s history. Founded in 2007, the company was acquired by Yahoo for $1 billion in 2013. However, by 2019, Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, purchased Tumblr for just $3 million.
Despite having a loyal user base, Tumblr has struggled to increase its daily active users since implementing a controversial porn ban. The platform’s culture is highly valued by its users, making any modifications, even minor ones, potentially unwelcome changes.
In conclusion, Tumblr’s new web browser look draws inspiration from X, aiming to enhance user understanding and exploration of the platform. While some users may be resistant to change, Tumblr hopes that the updates will attract new users and improve the overall user experience.
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