In today’s world, algorithms play an increasingly important role in our lives, dictating what we see on social media. To avoid being constrained by machines, Twitter (X) allows you to display your timeline in chronological order. Here’s how to switch your timeline to chronological mode.
The dangers of content personalization on social media
You may not be aware, but the blue bird social network recently launched a new timeline called “For You.” As the name suggests, this feature is designed to offer an even more personalized experience.
This means that tweets on your timeline are now filtered and sorted by an algorithm, supposedly matching your interests to keep you connected for as long as possible.
However, it is important to remember that algorithms are computer programs without sensitivity. They collect information about users to provide content tailored to their preferences.
Unfortunately, this personalization race can trap users in a bubble, presenting them with only partial versions of reality. That’s why it’s crucial to stay vigilant.
How to activate the chronological timeline on the Twitter (X) mobile app
Twitter’s new “For You” timeline has become the default news feed on the Twitter (X) app. This change has received mixed reactions from many users.
In response to user dissatisfaction, the social networking site decided to add a feature to revert to the chronological timeline on its app, which will be gradually rolled out on Android and iOS (iPhone and iPad).
- Launch the Twitter (X) app on your smartphone.
- Click on the icon with three small stars in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Select the option “Switch to see the latest tweets.”
- Update your timeline or restart your Twitter (X) app to activate the new settings.
Your timeline will now display tweets in reverse chronological order, with the most recent content appearing at the top of the screen instead of the selection of top tweets.
How to switch the timeline to chronological mode on a computer
Twitter (X) has become an essential communication tool for following real-time news in just a few years. By imposing an algorithm-based news feed, the social network risks losing its strength – its reactivity and immediacy.
The good news is that Twitter (X) now offers a new tab on its desktop version (Mac and Windows PCs) that allows you to automatically switch to the chronological timeline.
This feature is particularly useful for people who want to follow real-time trends and news without being influenced by algorithmic preferences. It’s also an effective alternative for those who use the blue bird social network to follow sports competitions (football matches, car races, etc.).
Tweets are displayed as they are published, not based on their popularity or interactions they generate. Messages regain their true role as information. See also: how to schedule tweets in advance on Twitter.
By using this new Twitter (X) option, you regain control of your tweet display. You can ensure you don’t miss anything and stay informed in real-time as new messages arrive.
Tweets will be updated based on the publication of new information. Of course, you can always return to the algorithmic display by clicking the “For You” tab in the Twitter (X) web interface.
FAQ
What is the difference between Twitter’s “Home” and “Latest” timelines?
Twitter’s “Home” timeline displays tweets based on an algorithm that prioritizes content it thinks you’ll be most interested in, considering factors like your interactions, interests, and accounts you follow. This can result in a more curated experience but may also limit the diversity of content you see.
The “Latest” timeline, on the other hand, shows tweets in reverse chronological order, with the most recent content appearing at the top. This provides a real-time, unfiltered view of the tweets from the accounts you follow, allowing you to stay updated on current events and trends.
How do I know if I’m seeing a chronological or algorithmic timeline on Twitter?
When viewing your Twitter (X) timeline on the mobile app, you can identify whether you’re seeing a chronological or algorithmic timeline by checking the icon in the top-right corner of the screen. If it shows three small stars, you’re using the algorithmic “Home” timeline. If it shows a small clock, you’re using the chronological “Latest” timeline.
On the desktop version of Twitter, you can identify your current timeline by checking the tabs at the top of your feed. The highlighted tab, either “Home” or “Latest,” indicates your current timeline mode.
