Vipi Radio
X, formerly known as Twitter, has recently implemented a change on its iOS app and web platform.
Specifically, headlines from link cards are now being removed.
Instead, users will only see an image with the domain name of the link, located in the bottom left corner.
This alteration may make it easier to overlook the link’s source.
Consequently, without a direct link to the post, users cannot navigate directly to the shared link.
This adjustment aligns with Elon Musk’s aim to encourage users to publish “long-form content” directly on the platform, ultimately seeking to extend the time users spend on X.
Musk had mentioned this change in August.
For website and news owners, this change on X (formerly Twitter) can have several implications:
Increased Emphasis on Visual Content: With the removal of headline text from link cards, the visual element becomes more prominent. This means that compelling and attention-grabbing images or visuals accompanying links will be even more crucial to attract users.
Potential Impact on Click-Through Rates: Since users won’t see the headline text, they may be less likely to click on a link if the image and domain name don’t immediately grab their attention. Website owners might need to put extra effort into creating engaging visuals.
Greater Need for Brand Recognition: With the domain name being the most visible piece of information, establishing a recognizable and trustworthy brand becomes even more important. Users should be able to quickly associate the domain with credible and valuable content.
Website owners may need to reconsider how they share links on X. This might involve crafting more visually appealing link cards or adjusting the content strategy to align with Elon Musk’s emphasis on long-form content directly on the platform.
Owners should closely monitor user engagement and click-through rates to assess the impact of this change on their website traffic. If there’s a noticeable decline, it may be necessary to adjust strategies accordingly.
Social media platforms like X are continually evolving. Website owners need to be adaptable and open to changing their strategies to align with platform updates and user preferences.
This change reinforces the importance of not relying solely on one platform for traffic. Diversifying traffic sources through SEO, email marketing, and other channels can help mitigate the impact of changes on any single platform.
