Twitter Updates: Larger Images & Cropping Control Now Available

Twitter Enhances Image Display, Pleasing Visual Artists

A recent modification to image presentation on Twitter has been met with enthusiasm from visual artists utilizing the platform.

Following a limited trial period initiated in March, Twitter has officially implemented the display of uncropped, larger images within user feeds.

This update represents a significant improvement to the overall image sharing experience for all users. See the official announcement here.

Full Image Display on Mobile

Users on both Android and iOS devices will now see standard aspect ratio images – specifically those with a 16:9 or 4:3 ratio – displayed in their entirety, without any cropping.

This eliminates the previous uncertainty regarding how images would appear in timelines, preventing potentially detrimental alterations to visual content.

Preview and Algorithmic Bias Concerns Addressed

Twitter’s updated system provides users with a preview of how their images will appear before posting. This addresses previous concerns about algorithmic cropping potentially exhibiting bias.

Specifically, past criticisms centered on the algorithm’s tendency to prioritize highlighting white faces during cropping.

A Response to User Feedback

“Today’s launch is a direct result of the feedback we received last year regarding inequities in our image cropping algorithm,” stated Lauren Alexander, a Twitter spokesperson.

The new approach reduces the platform’s dependence on automated, machine learning-based image cropping techniques.

Ongoing Improvements

While exceptionally tall or wide images will still undergo a centered crop, Twitter assures users that they are actively working to refine this process. Further enhancements to visual media display are also planned.

Impact on Visual Artists

This change is particularly impactful for visual artists, such as photographers and cartoonists, who leverage Twitter to showcase their work.

Artwork will now occupy more prominent space in timelines, and artists can confidently share their creations knowing they will be presented as intended, free from unwanted cropping.

Dantley Davis, Twitter’s Chief Design Officer, marked the occasion with a visually striking tweet featuring a landscape from Dead Horse Point, Utah.

Brands Take Note

It is worth noting that marketing brands have also acknowledged these changes.

The era of “open for a surprise” image-based tweets may be diminishing, but the iconic “long duck” meme can finally be fully appreciated.