Twitter Fleets
Just when you thought you had mastered Twitter, the platform introduces a new feature: Fleets. At first glance, Fleets function much like Facebook and Instagram Stories. Content you “Fleet” (a clever play on words by Twitter) is only available for 24 hours. Unlike regular Tweets, Fleets can’t be liked, retweeted or publicly replied to. The only way followers can interact is through direct messages (if your DMs are open) or by responding with an emoji. Sound familiar?
What Are Twitter Fleets?
A Fleet can include text, images, GIFs or videos, and is visible to your followers. Fleets appear in a new bar across the top of the Home timeline or can be accessed via your profile. If your Tweets are protected, your Fleets will be too, ensuring consistency in your privacy settings.
Twitter provides useful data about Fleets. As the author, you can see who has viewed your Fleet, including those with protected accounts, by clicking on the Fleet and selecting “Seen By” at the bottom of the screen. If you want to remove a Fleet before the 24-hour period is up, simply tap “Delete Fleet.”
Fleet Security
Fleets are subject to the same rules as regular Tweets. If someone violates Twitter’s guidelines, you can report their Fleet by tapping the “v” icon at the top of the post. For those who prefer to avoid specific users’ Fleets, you can mute their account’s Fleets entirely.
Twitter assures users that they take compliance seriously:
“Please note that we maintain a copy of all sent Fleets for a limited time after they expire or are deleted to be able to enforce against Fleets that are found to violate our rules. If a Fleet was found in violation, we may extend the time we maintain a copy of it to allow people an opportunity to appeal the violation if they believe it was a mistake.”
What Is the Point of Fleets?
It’s a valid question. At first glance, Fleets may seem like an unnecessary addition, but as with Stories on other platforms, they offer unique opportunities for quick, time-sensitive content.
For instance, Fleets are perfect for marketing campaigns with short lifespans. Announcing a flash sale, highlighting a limited-time promo code or sharing behind-the-scenes updates are all examples of how Fleets can be effectively used.
Because Fleets are new, many users may not adopt them immediately, giving you a chance to stand out and experiment. If you’re unsure about the feature, don’t worry—the content disappears after 24 hours. And if you dislike it entirely, you can delete it before it expires.
Why Try Fleets?
Change can be daunting, but early adoption often pays off. Fleets offer a low-risk way to test out a new format for engaging your audience. Whether it’s for promotions, quick updates or adding a touch of personality to your brand, Fleets might just surprise you.
I’ll definitely be giving Fleets a go—Fleet you soon!
