Mastodon 4.4 adds profile Featured tabs and improved media controls

Mastodon 4.4 introduces a new Featured tab on user profiles to highlight specific hashtags and recommended accounts. Pinned posts are now shown in a horizontal carousel for easier access, and a new widget displays mutual followers directly on profiles and hover previews. Users also can add or remove others from lists directly from profile and follower pages.

Media improvements include a redesigned audio player with better controls, skip buttons, and expanded keyboard shortcuts. Image zooming now supports double-tap, pinch-to-zoom, and swipe-up-to-close on touch devices. Accessibility is enhanced with optional reminders to add alt text to images and videos, including tips to improve descriptions and boost search visibility.

Navigation on mobile web gains a bottom toolbar and a reorganized sidebar with clearer access to bookmarks, lists, and followed hashtags. The Explore tab becomes Trending, and onboarding is simplified to two steps: setting up a profile and following users, with integrated search. Admins can now manage Terms of Service, translated rules, signup age limits, and send mandatory announcements. Moderators get an internal notes system, and users can now view quote posts from compatible servers, althoug posting quotes will come in version 4.5.