Now, Twitter's 140-character tweet limit will exclude add-ons
What's the story
On 19th September, 2016, Twitter declared that its 140-character tweet limit would no longer include add-ons like photos, videos and gifs. "Say more about what's happening! Rolling out now: photos, videos, GIFs, polls and Quote Tweets no longer count toward your 140 characters", Twitter announced in a tweet. These changes were revealed by Twitter in a blog post in May, 2016.
Background
About Twitter
Twitter is a free, online social networking, microblogging service that enables users to broadcast and read short 140-character posts known as "tweets". It is available on multiple platforms and devices; users can follow other users. Twitter is headquartered in San Francisco and has over 25 offices globally. It was founded by Jack Dorsey, Evan Williams, Biz Stone and Noah Glass in July 2006.
2011
The refurbishing of Twitter
In the year 2011, the biggest update that Twitter brought was the launch of the Twitter app on iPhones and on the Play Store. Apart from the introduction of the app, the twitter website featured easier and more streamlined navigation. In another big change, Businesses were allowed to create their brand pages on Twitter, allowing them to enhance relationships with consumers.
Quote
Simplicity
Twitter's head of API (Application Program Interface), said, "In a world where Facebook and Google are competing for features, Twitter wants to focus on being simple."
2013
Twitter introduces Custom Timelines
On 12th November, 2013, Twitter introduced 'custom timelines' - these enabled users to create their own timelines. Users could name and select tweets that they wanted to include in that timeline. This allowed users to create a timeline of significant, relevant tweets found amidst a chaotic conversation. Custom timelines helped users to tweet about topics they cared about.
2015
Major changes in 2015
2015 brought more updates such as instant timelines, timeline highlights, hashtags etc. Over 50,000 hashtags were indexed by Twitter in all search engines in order to make it search friendly for its consumers. Twitter became video-friendly in 2015, allowing users to upload, edit and publish videos on Twitter. Twitter also began 'Quick Promote' - a unique plan for its advertisers.
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Making things simple
Twitter said, "Ultimately, we believe there is something for everyone at any time on Twitter, and we want to make finding your niche simple from the start."