X Tests New Video Player UI for Enhanced Engagement
X (formerly Twitter) is experimenting with a new video player interface designed to improve user engagement. The updated design repositions key elements like engagement counts and playback controls.
Currently, engagement metrics appear below the video, while controls reside in a bottom bar. The new UI moves the engagement counts above the controls, making them more prominent. The controls themselves become transparent overlays on the video, similar to those on TikTok and Instagram Reels.
This change declutters the full-screen viewing experience as the metrics fade out during playback. The more prominent placement of engagement buttons aims to encourage interaction.
While not a drastic overhaul, this adjustment aligns X's video player with current trends in short-form video consumption. However, the prevalence of square-format videos on X still limits the full-screen impact.
X's Push Towards Video
X is actively striving to become a video-centric platform. The company has introduced several video-related features, including:
- Variable playback speeds
- Picture-in-picture streaming
- Improved TV casting
- Longer video uploads
- Game streaming capabilities
This latest UI experiment reflects X's ongoing commitment to enhancing the video experience and driving user engagement.
