Twitter is testing a new way to show replies and users aren’t happy

Twitter is experimenting again. 

In a tweet Tuesday, the company said it’s testing a new way to display replies. 

“Some of you on iOS and web will see a new layout for replies with lines and indentations that make it clearer who is talking to whom and to fit more of the convo in one view,” the tweet said. 

The lines and indentations should be familiar to anyone who’s used Reddit, where threaded conversations are displayed in a similar manner. Visually, to me, it’s easier to follow threads this way, though it may be even better with a few additional options, such as the ability to automatically unfurl threads as you encounter them. 

Twitter also said it’s experimenting with the way its icons are displayed. “We’re also experimenting with placing like, Retweet, and reply icons behind a tap for replies. We’re trying this with a small group on iOS and web to see how it affects following and engaging with a convo,” the company said. 

Judging by the response so far, however, these indented threads may not become particularly popular. 

“With all due respect, it’s horrendous,” one commenter said. “All you’ve done is make it about 1000x harder to read and follow,” tweeted another. I’ve scrolled pretty far down and haven’t encountered a single positive reply. Maybe we just need a few more options, Twitter?

The change comes just a day after Twitter announced it’s testing a feature that would give users an option to remove swear words. That one didn’t go down very well, either.