Twitter to Track Users' App Downloads

Twitter has begun tracking app installation by iOS and Android device users, with the stated aim of building 'a more tailored experience' for its users. The firm insists that it is not collecting any other data inside apps.

Twitter says the resulting app data will be used to improve recommendations of who users should follow by connecting them with those with similar interests, and also to show relevant promoted content. The approach, which it calls the 'app graph', is designed to encourage more 'passive' users to become more active users; and will enhance the company's existing interest-based ad targeting capabilities, to enable advertisers to reach users based on what apps they have / which games they play.

The firm says it will respect the settings a user had previously agreed to, including the 'limit ad tracking' and 'opt out of interest-based ads' functions, and will also give users a chance to opt out of the new initiative.

Web site: www.twitter.com .