Mastodon launches version 4.2 with overhauled search feature and improved web interface

Mastodon, the decentralized and federated social network, has announced the release of version 4.2, introducing several major enhancements. Among the key improvements is an overhauled search feature, now offering a new interface inspired by the Ivory app. As users type, a pop-out provides quick actions such as direct navigation to hashtags, profile-only search, or the option to open a URL in Mastodon when written or pasted.

The search feature now also allows users to locate people using words from their bios, not just their names. To help distinguish genuine results from impersonators or third-party bots, verified links are now prominently displayed in the search results. Additionally, the ability to search for posts has been introduced as a significant enhancement.

Mastodon 4.2 also brings refinements to the web interface, with improvements such as additional thread indicators, enhanced article previews, and the removal of cropping from image previews. The sign-up flow and initial login experience have also been restructured. Progress indicators have been added to guide users through the multi-step sign-up process, with the copy and labels rewritten to be more intuitive. Upon login, users are directed to recommended first steps, including profile completion, following others, making the first post, and sharing their profile outside Mastodon.

The interaction experience when logged out has also been revamped. Users are now prompted to enter their Mastodon “home” domain with autocomplete suggestions provided, followed by redirection to the indicated post or profile in the logged-in interface.

These changes will be accessible to you once your Mastodon server operator implements the upgrade to this new version. In addition to these major improvements, Mastodon 4.2 also includes numerous other minor changes, enhancements, and bug fixes.