Yes, Facebook did recently make a change to where users’ profile pictures are located on the site. Here are some key details about the Facebook profile picture location change:
What was the old profile picture location?
Up until a few weeks ago, users’ main profile pictures were located in the top left corner of their Facebook profiles. This profile picture location had been consistent since Facebook first launched in 2004.
What is the new profile picture location?
Now, users’ main profile pictures have been moved to the top center of their profiles, right above where their name and cover photo are displayed. This puts the profile picture front and center on each user’s Timeline.
When did this change happen?
Facebook began testing moving users’ profile pictures to the new central location in late September 2022. The change rolled out more widely in early October 2022.
Why did Facebook make this change?
Facebook has not provided an official reason for the profile picture relocation. However, it seems likely it was done to modernize the look of Facebook profiles and make the profile picture more prominent. Centering the profile photo gives it more focus.
What do users think of the change?
Reactions to the relocated Facebook profile picture have been mixed:
- Some users like the more centralized spot – it makes their profile picture the focal point.
- Other users find it jarring after years of having the picture in the corner.
- Some users have complained the larger profile picture takes up too much space.
Will users have the option to move it back?
At this time, there is no setting for users to revert the profile picture to its original corner location. The centralized spot seems to be the new standard position going forward.
How are Facebook cover photos affected?
The repositioning of users’ profile pictures does impact cover photos. Cover photos are now a bit shorter on profiles in order to accommodate the larger profile picture.
Conclusion
Facebook’s recent update moving users’ profile pictures from the left corner to the center of their profiles is one of the biggest design changes to the platform in years. It gives the profile picture much greater prominence, though reactions have been mixed. While users cannot currently change it back, they may have the option to do so in the future if enough demand for the original layout returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Facebook move profile pictures to the center?
Facebook started testing moving users’ profile pictures to the center in late September 2022 and rolled out the change more widely in early October 2022.
Where were profile pictures located before?
Previously, users’ main profile pictures were positioned in the top left corner of their Facebook profiles since the platform first began in 2004.
Can users change the profile picture back to the corner?
As of now, there is no setting for users to move their profile picture back to the left corner spot. The centralized location seems to be permanent.
How do users feel about this?
Reactions are mixed, with some liking the more prominent spotlight on their profile photo and others finding it disruptive or too large.
How are cover photos impacted?
Cover photos are now shorter in order to make room for the larger centralized profile picture on users’ timelines.
5 Key Facts About the Facebook Profile Picture Move
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Previous location | Top left corner |
| New location | Top center |
| When it changed | Late September/early October 2022 |
| Can users move it back? | No, not at this time |
| Impact on cover photos | Cover photos are shorter |
How to Update Your Facebook Profile and Cover Photo
With profile pictures now front and center, you may want to update your profile photo and cover image:
Changing your profile picture
- Go to your profile and click on your profile picture
- Select “Update Profile Picture” and choose a new photo from your computer or Facebook albums
- Click “Save” to update your profile picture
Changing your cover photo
- Go to your profile and click on your cover photo
- Click “Update Cover Photo” and select a new horizontal image
- Position the photo how you’d like it to appear
- Click “Save Changes” to update your cover photo
With Facebook’s latest profile changes, take the opportunity to refresh your profile and cover pictures so you put your best face forward on the social network.