A walkthrough of Twitter’s latest re-design

As you may have found out if you’ve visited your Twitter account in the past few days, Twitter has rolled out the option to use their new and improved profile design. Although there are a variety of new features included with this new profile design, I’m going to be focusing on the design changes.

The new design definitely takes some tips from Facebook, Google+, and YouTube, who all have large header photo areas for your branding.

Much like Google+ and YouTube, the new Twitter header photo scales to fit your screen. This means that in order for your header photo to look great on any screen size, you’ll need to make sure you’re using the right dimensions, and are aware of how Twitter makes use of your design.

1. Header Dimensions

Twitter’s recommended header photo size is 1500px in width by 500px in height. Only certain areas of your design will be visible on different platforms, though. Below is a template that blocks those areas out fairly accurately.

There is a little bit of inconsistency, depending on how large your window is on your computer, or whether or not you’re using the Apple Twitter app, or Android Twitter app, but this template should help get you started. 

2. Profile Dimensions

Twitter has also greatly increased the size your profile picture on your profile. Their recommended size is now 400px by 400px. Your profile picture is still quite small on the Twitter feed, so it’s important not to include too many small details that may not show up as well at a small size.

3. How do I get the new profile?

To get the new profile, all you have to do is log in to your Twitter account. You should be greeted with a large alert at the top of your page. Click “Take a look!” to get started. Twitter will then walk you through all the new features of the new profile. Don’t worry, this step won’t make the change permanent.

Be warned, though! The next step, “Turn it on!” will permanently change your profile to the new design, so be sure that you are ready to make the switch.

4. I’m not a designer. Help!

Not everyone has the software and resources to make graphics for their social media accounts. That’s where we come in! We can create professional graphics to match your company’s branding. If you’re interested in our Twitter Branding services, feel free to request a quote.