Twitter Fleets? WTH is a FLEET, I thought it was TWEET! If you’ve had the same thought or question – we’ve got you. Let’s talk about the newest Twitter feature that is getting all the buzz.
Today, Twitter launched a new feature called a FLEET. Yes, that is spelled correctly, we aren’t talking tweets, we are talking fleets and here is what you need to know about this new Twitter feature.
Don’t miss our funny Twitter Fleet memes!
Today, Twitter launched a new feature called a FLEET. Yes, that is spelled correctly, we aren’t talking tweets, we are talking fleets and here is what you need to know about this new Twitter feature.
What is a Fleet on Twitter?
A fleet is like a tweet, but it disappears in 24 hours and it can’t get retweets, likes or public replies. Fleets are mobile-first but you can also add videos and photos that will disappear after 24 hours as well.
Disappearing Tweet
So, yes – similar to the original SnapChat or more so Instagram stories. Here is what Twitter has to say about the new disappearing tweet feature.
24 hours is how long your Twitter Fleets are available for viewing.
Tweeting is uncomfortable because it feels so public, so permanent, and like there’s so much pressure to rack up Retweets and Likes. That’s why, unfortunately, there are so many 🔥 Tweets left in drafts! To help people feel more comfortable, we’ve been working on a lower pressure way for people to talk about what’s happening.
Twitter
Twitter Fleets Go Away After 24 Hours
Disappear – yes, Twitter Fleets go away in 24 hours.
Because they disappear from view after a day, Fleets helped people feel more comfortable sharing personal and casual thoughts, opinions, and feelings. These are early findings from our tests and we’re excited to learn more about how
Testing Out Fleets
Testing out a fleet, I have to say – it’s kind of nice not having to think about people retweeting or replying. Twitter tested out the new Fleet feature in Brazil, Italy, India, and South Korea.
With the test, they learned that Fleets helped people feel more comfortable joining the conversation
Available on Twitter App Only
Currently, Twitter Fleets are only available on the latest version of the Twitter app. You currently will not be able to access this new Twitter feature via the web.
How Do I Fleet?
So you have the latest version of the Twitter app downloaded, right? Okay, let’s open up the app and here is how you Fleet:
At the VERY top left you should see a blue circle with a plus sign and a camera.
That is your FLEET button! Click it and you will be taken to a screen where you can fleet.
What You Need to Know Before Fleeting
Remember, this is a NEW feature for Twitter – so expect this whole Fleeting thing to grow with features. That said, there are several things you should know before you start fleeting. Some are concerning.
Here are a few things to know about Fleets:
- Your fleet disappears in 24 hours.
- A fleet can include text, video or a photo.
- If someone replies to you, it will not be public – it will be a private message.
- You can share and link to tweets without alerting the original creator. This allows people who have been blocked to @ them within their fleets this is a major security issue for users who are vulnerable to harassment. stay safe. source: @spacysapphic
- You can Tweet your own Fleet BUT no one else can share your tweet (but keep reading, someone CAN screenshot a fleet!)
- If you post a Twitter fleet, like on Instagram – your profile will show
- Like Instagram stories, you can just let Fleets auto-play.
- Per Twitter – more features are coming soon. Think of this like the early days of Instagram stories. Maybe you will be able to add music and gifs.
What the Fleet FAQ
Here are some common questions about Twitter Fleets that we are seeing. We are learning as you are learning about this new Twitter feature!
How long do Fleets last?
Twitter Fleets are visible for 24 hours.
Are Fleets available internationally?
As of right now, Fleets are not available in every country – but will shortly be rolling out globally in the coming days.
How do I access Fleets?
Twitter fleets is only accessible via the Twitter app (for now!)
Are Fleets like Stories?
YES! Twitter Fleets feels a LOT like Instagram stories. It will be interesting to see if you will be able to see your past Fleets like you reshare Instagram stories. (While no one can actively view your Instagram stories – you can view past Insta stories and publicly archive.)=
Why doesn’t my Twitter app have the Fleet feature?
Make sure that your Twitter app is updated. The app updated today (November 17th.) Also, note that if you are not in the United States – this new Twitter feature may not be available in your location. Twitter says that this feature will be available globally soon – so hold on!
How do I watch Twitter Fleets?
On the Twitter app, you can view Twitter Fleets at the top of your screen. See the little heads in a round circle – those are users who have posted fleet(s) in the last 24 hours.
How Will Someone See My Fleet?
There are currently 2 ways that someone can see your Twitter Fleets (or know that you have fleeted.) If you have fleeted in the last 24 hours, your profile photo will show in the Fleet steam on the top of someone’s Twitter app. The Twitter Fleet algorithm is currently an unknown so a follower MAY or may not see your profile photo up top.
Another way that someone will know that you have fleeted is if someone goes to your Twitter profile. Anyone who has fleeted will have a gray circle around their profile photo. When someone clicks on your profile photo, they will get a pop-up box (at the bottom of the screen) that prompts giving 2 options.
1. View Profile Photo
2. View Fleets (click on this to view the fleets!)
Fleet Screen Shots
Fear not friends, when our favorite Twitter personality goes of a fleet rampage – while these fleets may not be able to be liked, retweeted or publicly replied to – you know these fleets will be screen shot!
While we would love to think that there is a way to say our peace without the public affair – there is always a way someone can find their way around that.
Parler has No Fleets
Last week we talked about the Twitter alternative, Parler. While Parler touts free speech, this Twitter feature is something that Parler doesn’t have.
Will Twitter Flag Fleets?
Which leads to the question – how does Twitter plan on monitoring Fleets and will they monitor Twitter Fleets like they monitor Twitter Tweets? Will they flag disinformation in Fleets?
Twitter Fleets Security Flaw
A possible Twitter Fleets security flaw (noted on 11/17/2020 by @DrAndrewThaler
HOLY MOLA!
— Andrew Thaler (@DrAndrewThaler) November 17, 2020
You can tag accounts that have blocked you (and that you’ve blocked, me and POTUS are mutual blockers) in a “fleet” and the tag will still work to direct your followers to that account.
That is not good. pic.twitter.com/mKb4Fxb3C1
Yet Another Thing for Parent to Think About
Years ago when I first started writing about social media and teens – Twitter was not popular with the teenage crowd. Of course, that has since changed. This is yet another thing for parents to be aware of in regards to social media!
Twitter Game Changer? Maybe!
Years ago, I was active on Twitter but in the last few years – not so much. Testing on Twitter Fleets – I do have to say I see the appeal. It could easily be because I LOVE INSTAGRAM STORIES and this is like early days Instagram stories.
Time will tell how Twitter Fleets compares to Twitter Tweets. It will be interesting to see how this develops, for sure.
Broderick Oneal
Monday 6th of February 2023
I just like the helpful information you provide in your articles