Tech News

X Tests New Link Feature to Boost Engagement on Posts While Browsing Links

Highlights

X is testing a feature that lets users like or reply to posts while viewing linked webpages.
Currently in testing on iOS, the update keeps the original post visible at the bottom of the page.
X has launched a Handle Marketplace for Premium+ users to claim inactive usernames.

Caption – How the new way of accessing links on X will work. (Image credit – @nikitabier on X)

Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) is testing a new feature designed to increase engagement on posts that include links. This experimental feature allows users to interact with the original post such as liking or replying even while browsing the linked webpage. Here’s what we know so far.

X’s New Link Experience Under Testing

The update was announced by Nikita Bier, Head of Product at X, in a post. Bier revealed that the new link experience is currently being tested on iOS and the goal is to make it easier for followers to engage with posts that contain external links, which typically see lower interaction rates. Explaining how the new experience will work on the X app, Bier shared a video.

A common issue faced by creators is that posts with links often receive less visibility and engagement. When users click a link, they are redirected to an external webpage, leaving the original post behind. This basically ends up in fewer likes, replies, or shares. This lack of engagement also makes it harder for X’s algorithm to assess the quality of the shared content.

To solve this, the new test introduces a redesigned browsing experience.

When a user taps on a link, the original post will collapse to the bottom of the screen, allowing continued visibility. After exploring the linked webpage, users can easily react by tapping on a menu bar located at the bottom. This ensures that the original post remains accessible and encourages real-time interaction without disrupting the browsing flow.

The feature aims to help creators maintain engagement and ensure that their posts “stand out” even when users are focused on the shared links.

In a related development, X recently launched a Handle Marketplace exclusively for Premium+ subscribers, enabling users to claim inactive usernames. This move is part of the platform’s broader effort to offer more control and customisation options to its paying members.

FAQs

Q1. What is the new link feature X is testing?

Answer. X is testing a feature that lets users like or reply to posts while browsing linked webpages, keeping the original post visible at the bottom of the screen.

Q2. Why is X introducing a new Link experience feature?

Answer. Posts with external links often get less engagement. This update aims to help creators retain visibility and boost interaction without disrupting browsing.

Q3. Who can access the new link experience and when?

Answer. The feature is currently being tested on iOS and will roll out in select regions soon, as part of X’s broader push to improve post engagement and creator tools.