FB New Layout Guide: Navigation and Customization Tips
Learn how to navigate and customize the new Facebook layout with tips for personalizing your feed, managing privacy, and optimizing business pages.
Introduction to the FB New Layout and Why It Changed
Facebook periodically rolls out design updates to improve usability, modernize the interface, and adapt to evolving user habits. The FB new layout represents one of the platform’s most significant redesigns in recent years, impacting both desktop and mobile experiences.
According to Facebook, the main goals of this update include:
- Enhancing overall speed and performance.
- Improving navigation across multiple devices.
- Making popular features like Groups, Watch, and Marketplace easier to locate.
- Updating the design for a consistent experience between mobile and desktop.
If you’ve recently logged in and noticed a fresher interface, larger interactive elements, or new menu placements, you’re seeing the FB new layout in action.
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Key Differences Between Old vs. New Facebook Layout
The redesign affects both the visual presentation and structural organization of the platform. Below is a side-by-side look at the most noticeable changes:
| Feature | Old Layout | New Layout |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation Bar | Thin blue bar on top; text links | Thicker top bar with icons for Home, Watch, Marketplace, Groups |
| News Feed | Centered with less whitespace | Centered with more whitespace and rounded corners |
| Dark Mode | Not available | Available on both desktop and mobile |
| Profile & Pages | Different layouts for desktop vs. mobile | Unified card-style layout across devices |
These updates also relocate certain menu items—features that were once in the left sidebar may now reside in the top navigation or within dropdowns.
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How to Switch Between Classic and New Layout (If Available)
When rollout began, Facebook briefly allowed users to go back to the classic interface. This feature is now restricted, but if it’s still available for your account, the process is:
- Click the down arrow (account menu) in the top right corner.
- Select Switch to Classic Facebook (if visible).
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
Facebook has been removing this toggle for most accounts, so don’t be surprised if it’s no longer accessible.
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Understanding the New Facebook Top Navigation Menu
The most prominent change in the FB new layout is the redesigned top navigation bar, now featuring clear, icon-based shortcuts:
- Home → News Feed
- Watch → Videos and live streams
- Marketplace → Buy and sell locally
- Groups → Group feed and discovery
- Gaming → Game streams and communities (on select accounts)
On the right side of the bar, you’ll find:
- Account & settings menu
- Messenger shortcut
- Notifications bell
- Create (+) button
This structure centralizes primary actions while reducing clutter.
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Customizing Your News Feed and Sidebar
Even in the updated design, Facebook allows for personalization:
Adjust Feed Preferences
- Access Feed Preferences from the News Feed More menu.
- Add friends or Pages to Favorites for priority visibility.
- Snooze or unfollow to filter unwanted content.
Organize the Sidebar
- Collapse unused sections using the triangle arrows.
- Drag and drop key groups or Pages to the top for quick access.
Small changes can make the FB new layout feel more tailored to your use.
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Managing Privacy in the Updated Interface
Your account menu now consolidates settings:
- Click your profile picture or down arrow in the top right.
- Select Settings & Privacy.
- Use options like Privacy Checkup, Activity Log, or Security Settings.
Pro Tip: The redesigned Privacy Shortcuts page offers quick access to who can view your data and posts.
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Optimizing Facebook Business Pages for the New Layout
If you run a Facebook Page, note these layout-specific updates:
- Tabs & Sections now appear in a horizontal bar under the cover image.
- Primary CTA Button is centrally placed and more prominent.
- Page Insights have a cleaner, more mobile-friendly dashboard.
For better results:
- Adjust your cover photo to suit new dimensions.
- Pin an intro post or important event at the top.
- Reorder tabs so high-conversion sections appear first.
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Accessibility Enhancements in the New Layout
The redesign includes built-in accessibility improvements:
- Dark Mode: Enable under Display & Accessibility in the account menu.
- Font Size: Adjustable via browser or system settings, optimized for responsive scaling.
- High Contrast Mode: Improves text clarity on supported devices.
These features improve usability for those with visual needs and anyone spending extended time on Facebook.
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Common Complaints About the FB New Layout and Fixes
Many users have voiced concerns about the new design. Here are some quick solutions:
| Complaint | Possible Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Slower performance | Older hardware handling modern UI | Clear browser cache, disable extensions |
| Harder to find settings | Relocation of menus | Use search or navigate via “Settings & Privacy” menu |
| Too much whitespace | Minimalist, mobile-first design | Adjust zoom level in browser |
| Missing features | Phased rollout differences | Check Facebook Help Center regularly |
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Preparing for Future Facebook Design Updates
Facebook’s interface will keep evolving. To adapt:
- Explore new elements immediately after updates.
- Follow official Help Center guides.
- Use Give Feedback to share opinions with Facebook.
- Keep your browser and app versions updated.
Embracing these changes early helps you continue benefiting from the platform’s features without interruptions.
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Summary and Next Steps
The FB new layout aims to create a faster, cleaner, and more unified user experience across devices. By understanding its differences from the old design, personalizing menus, and making use of accessibility and business-friendly features, you can make the most of the update rather than resist it.
If you manage a Page or spend significant time on the platform, take action now to adjust settings, reorganize your feed, and explore the navigation changes. Staying adaptable means you’ll get the best user experience Facebook has to offer—both now and with future redesigns.
