New web interface for Tumblr mirrors Twitter's design: A strategy for user growth and retention

Tumblr recently launched a new web interface, similar to the design of X (formerly Twitter 🪦). The updated layout moves the navigation bar to the left side and positions the compose button at the bottom left, both changes mirroring X's design. The aim is to enhance user understanding and exploration on Tumblr, benefiting both newcomers and existing users. The navigation now includes text labels for a better explanation of the icons.

Changes also include moving subpages to the right of the settings page, away from their earlier expandable position on the left. The messaging window issues on smaller screens have been fixed to enhance user experience. The Account section has been streamlined for easier blog access, and Tumblr may introduce a collapsible navigation and optimize screen space for larger screens in future updates.

The updates come as Tumblr experiences increased user growth following the recent drastic changes on Twitter (X), which prompted some users to explore alternative platforms like Tumblr, so the company hopes that this strategy will not only serve to attract but also to retain those new users seeking a more traditional alternative. The platform desperately needs new users and new earnings because, after being acquired in 2019 by Automattic Inc., the owner of WordPress, from Verizon, it has been losing $30 million dollars each year.