Twitter/X app optimizations now available for Google Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet

Twitter has finally addressed the issue of black bars on Google’s Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet with the release of version 10.18.0 of the X app. The update brings much-needed relief to users, as the app now utilizes the full width of the screen without stretching content, providing a more centralized and compact layout for a better viewing experience.

Previously, users launching the app on these devices experienced a stretched interface confined within black boxes on the sides. This less-than-ideal solution was a result of many Android apps not being optimized for large screens, but the latest update has rectified this issue.

Although the change technically applies to all Android devices, it is most noticeable on Google’s large-screen offerings. Unlike other manufacturers who force non-optimized apps into fullscreen mode, Google initially opted not to do that in order to encourage App Developers to add support in-app instead. However, with the introduction of aspect ratio per-app overrides with Android 14 QPR1 Beta 1, which is now present in the December 2023 Pixel Feature Drop, this approach has changed.

The update is currently available in the Play Store and may even trickle down to older versions of the app. While this improvement is welcome, it is worth noting that Twitter/X could still do a lot better in terms of tablet optimization. The hope is that the developers will continue to prioritize tablet optimization and roll out an even more seamless and enjoyable experience for users of large-screen Android devices in the future.