Twitter has rolled out a ‘Lite’ avatar which promises lower data usage and is targeted at markets like ours, where connectivity is a never-ending issue.
Twitter Lite is similar to Facebook’s Lite version: low on style, but focused on reduced data consumption.
The app will be available for Android and iOS devices, as well as desktops.
Twitter is the second digital giant to have introduced a Lite avatar this week. On Thursday, YouTube debuted its YouTube Go app in the country.
The idea behind the rush for going Lite is that most users prefer using these apps offline, especially in areas with weak network connectivity.
For Twitter, focusing on 2G users is also as important as ushering in new features for its 3G/4G clientele. And this remark by the company’s Product Manager, Patrick Traughber, explains why: “45% of mobile connections are still on slower 2G networks.”
The microblogging firm has added a data-saver mode in the Lite version. The app’s interface is simple, and images appear blurred out by default.
Here’s what the web version of Twitter Lite looks like:
What Twitter Lite Promises
- Size of the app - 1MB
- 30% faster launch time
- Reduced data usage by up to 70%
- Supports Hindi, Bengali, Kannada, Tamil, Gujarati and Marathi
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)