Twitter has announced that it will be redesigning its new redesign after users complained it was causing them headaches.
The new site and app design was introduced last week, bringing more high-contrast colours alongside a new font called Chirp.
Twitter said while the redesign “might feel weird at first” it would improve users’ experience by removing “visual clutter”.
However many users have found the new design unpleasant, with those who have accessibility needs in particular complaining about it being hard to read.
We’re making contrast changes on all buttons to make them easier on the eyes because you told us the new look is uncomfortable for people with sensory sensitivities. We’re listening and iterating.
— Twitter Accessibility (@TwitterA11y) August 13, 2021
The major changes to the design of the app and website were introduced to make the platform “more accessible”.
The idea was that the high levels of contrast between the background and the text being useful for people with vision problems, but others have said it is causing them eye strain.
News site TechCrunch reported that the contrast level between the text and the Twitter background “far exceeds the minimum contrast standards set by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines” which recommends how to make a website accessible to all.
Twitter said it was going to introduce some new contrast changes to make the design “easier on the eyes” as the company recognised user complaints that “the new look is uncomfortable for people with sensory sensitivities”.
The company also added that it had identified issues with the Chirp font for Windows users and was “actively working on a fix”.
But some users have complained about this response, with one noting: “Accessibility is not one size fits all.
“These new features have made Twitter inaccessible for people with astigmatism and dyslexia (the new font), and colour-contrast and photosensitive migraineurs (the new colour scheme).
“Changes should be an OPTION, not default,” they wrote, while another added: “What about the font choice and the missing ability to resize?”
The company said: “Thanks to everyone who’s sent us feedback about the design updates. We’re tracking all of it so keep it coming.”
