Mastodon, a decentralized social network, has introduced a new feature in its official Android app that allows users to easily share their profiles using QR Codes. This feature is particularly handy in noisy environments like event venues and hotel lobbies where exchanging profiles can be challenging, as mentioned in a blog post.
To share the QR code, users can simply go to their profile tab, tap the QR icon next to their name, and obtain a code that others can scan to access their profile.
In an effort to simplify the concept of Fediverse for users, Mastodon has added explanations about domain names in Mastodon handles within the app. When users tap on a handle, they are presented with a dialogue that clarifies the distinction between usernames and server names. Additionally, the app now highlights either the username or the server name in the handle when users tap on these explanations.
Image Credits: Mastodon.org
Mastodon has also improved the prompts for blocking and muting to clearly explain the impact of taking these actions on a profile.
Image Credits: mastodon.org
Furthermore, the updated Android app includes features like a new link card preview that displays the post author and date, as well as user-friendly drop-down menus on profiles.
Mastodon now faces tough competition in the decentralized social network arena as Bluesky recently opened up to the public and started working on federation. Some users trying out Mastodon have expressed challenges in understanding the complexity of the network with different servers on the ActivityPub network. Going forward, the company will need to focus on improving user experience and navigation in the decentralized social world.
