How to Stop X Feed from Auto-Refreshing
Author: Ian C. Langtree - Writer/Editor for Disabled World (DW)
Published: 18 Jul 2021 - Updated: 9 Jun 2026
Publication Type: Instructive / Helpful
Contents: Synopsis - Definition - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates - Related Publications
Synopsis: This information offers a practical guide to halting the auto-refresh behavior of X (formerly Twitter) timeline feeds, a feature that can disrupt users by causing the page to jump unexpectedly, often leading to a loss of reading position. Authored by Ian C. Langtree, a seasoned advocate for disability rights and founder of a prominent accessibility-focused platform, the article provides step-by-step instructions for both desktop and mobile users to adjust settings - specifically by toggling the "Reduce Motion" option within the platform's accessibility settings. This adjustment is particularly beneficial for individuals with cognitive or motor impairments, seniors, and others who may find sudden interface changes disorienting or challenging to navigate. By minimizing such disruptions, the guidance supports a more stable and user-friendly experience, aligning with inclusive design principles that prioritize usability for all.
At a Glance
- 1 - The fix lives under the "Motion" section of X's "Accessibility" settings, reached on desktop by clicking "More" then "Settings and Privacy," or on mobile by tapping your avatar in the top right.
- 2 - Even after turning the feature off, you will still get the notification at the top of your timeline letting you know new posts are waiting to be read.
- 3 - The author notes the setting is not foolproof - it should curb the auto scrolling, but it might not stop it every single time.
- Topic Definition: Auto-Refresh
Auto-refresh is a feature built into many social media feeds and web pages that automatically reloads the content on its own, pulling in new posts or updates without the user having to do anything. On a platform like X, it works hand in hand with endless scrolling, so that as fresh material arrives the timeline quietly reloads and often springs back to the top. In theory it is handy for keeping up with live events and breaking news, but the timing can be awkward, sometimes yanking the page upward in the middle of reading and leaving a person to hunt for their place again. For anyone who reads at a slower pace, relies on a screen reader, or finds sudden movement on screen disorienting, this constant reloading can turn from a convenience into a genuine obstacle, which is why platforms increasingly tuck an off switch for it inside their accessibility settings.
Introduction
You know how on X when you scroll down near the bottom of the page and then it decides to automatically load more tweets (endless scroll). Well, a lot of times - all of a sudden - your whole timeline will refresh automatically and go back to the top, and then eventually jump back to somewhere close to where you were.
Main Content
While auto-refresh is a good feature in theory, and definitely has its uses for live events and news Tweets, the current implementation causes the refresh to happen at some very inconvenient times, like right in the middle of reading a tweet. The timeline zooms back up to the top and the user loses track of what they were reading.
If you find the way your X feed keeps auto scrolling and/or loading new Tweets before you have finished reading the ones you were interested in causing you to lose your place in your X timeline then here's how to fix it for both X Desktop and X Mobile.
Stop X Auto Refreshing
Tap your avatar in the top right (on the mobile app) or click "More" on the left hand side of X on desktop computers.
- Click on "Settings and Privacy".
- Click on "Accessibility".
- Toggle "Reduce Motion" to the on position.
So, to stop your X timeline from constantly auto refreshing; Locate the "Reduce motion" option under the "Motion" section in the "Accessibility" area of your profile settings. Uncheck the checkbox to disable the auto scrolling feature. You will still see the X notification that tells you there are new Tweets at the top to read but, this should, but might not always, stop X from auto scrolling your feed.
Insights, Analysis, and Developments
Editorial Note: While auto-refreshing news feeds and timelines are designed to keep users updated in real time, they can inadvertently create obstacles for those who read at a different pace or rely on screen readers and other assistive technologies. By highlighting simple accessibility settings, this article not only solves a persistent annoyance but also promotes a more inclusive digital environment. Such practical adjustments are a reminder that thoughtful design can make online platforms more welcoming and usable for everyone.
Author Credentials: Ian is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Disabled World, a leading resource for news and information on disability issues. With a global perspective shaped by years of travel and lived experience, Ian is a committed proponent of the Social Model of Disability-a transformative framework developed by disabled activists in the 1970s that emphasizes dismantling societal barriers rather than focusing solely on individual impairments. His work reflects a deep commitment to disability rights, accessibility, and social inclusion. To learn more about Ian's background, expertise, and accomplishments, visit his full biography.