Although Twitter has now launched a new voice Tweet feature that lets users dictate entire Tweet threads, Android device owners cannot currently join in. While the company has yet to provide any firm information on when the iOS exclusivity is likely to change, it is common for services to prioritize one operating system over another and especially, during the launch period.
The new voice Tweet feature has the potential to significantly change the way many engage with Twitter. For example, not only can users record audio Tweets and get a much longer and more personal message across on the platform, but those encountering these audio Tweets will also be changing how they interact with content, due to having to listen to Tweets, instead of reading them. However, the frequency and popularity of voice Tweets is going to largely depend on the accessibility and right now, that’s the biggest hurdle for the new feature.
In the voice Tweets announcement, Twitter did not provide any information on Android support at all. Instead, the company simply stated that select iOS users are able to access the feature for the time being. The only additional information provided was that voice Tweets would become universally available to all iOS users within weeks. Those with an iPhone or iPad can make sure they are prepared to receive the new feature by ensuring the Twitter app is updated to the most recent version.
The delay in rolling out Android support might not have anything to do with Android, specifically. What is far more likely, is that Twitter is attempting to control the feature rollout as much as possible. By focusing solely on one operating system, the company can properly test it in a real-world setting, as well as the response and feedback from users. In turn, this could result in changes, or even the feature being pulled altogether - as was the case with a recent Instagram hearts feature.
This single operating system rollout approach is very common, with companies, including Twitter, often opting to limit access by platform for a period of time. For example, Twitter is also currently testing a warning feature that asks users if they read an article that they are about to share. Unlike voice Tweets, the ‘read before sharing’ feature is being tested exclusively on Android. Twitter Support previously confirmed this was to ensure the feature’s reliability.
While it remains unclear when Android users will gain access to voice Tweets, there’s no reason to suggest they won’t gain access in general. In fact, in response to a question relating to non-iOS devices, Twitter Support also confirmed the company is currently working on how it will add additional platform support in the future
Providing the feature works as intended, and without too many major issues or negative feedback from users, it is likely that Android users won’t have to wait too long until they can also compose a Tweet using their voice.
https://ift.tt/2N63H66
June 18, 2020 at 05:21AM
