Facebook Stories allow users to share photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours. While viewing a Facebook Story, there are a few ways to zoom in for a closer look.
Using Pinch to Zoom
The easiest way to zoom in on a Facebook Story is to use the pinch to zoom gesture on your smartphone or tablet. To zoom:
- Place two fingers on the screen over the area you want to magnify.
- Slowly spread your fingers apart to zoom in.
- Pinch your fingers together to zoom back out.
Pinching to zoom allows you to get a closer look at any part of a photo or video Story. You can smoothly zoom in and out to focus on details.
Double Tapping to Zoom
Another way to zoom into a Facebook Story is by double tapping the screen. When you double tap a photo or video Story, it will quickly zoom in on that spot. Double tap again to zoom back out.
Double tapping is quicker than pinching to zoom, but doesn’t allow the same smooth control over the zoom level. Use double tap when you want to quickly take a closer look at something in a Story.
Exploring Zoomed Images
Once you’ve zoomed into a photo Story, you can explore the magnified image:
- Drag your finger around to view different parts of the image up close.
- Use two fingers to pinch and zoom even further on details.
- Double tap the screen to zoom back out.
Exploring an image this way allows you to inspect little details you might otherwise miss. The zoomed view makes it easy to appreciate the small elements that make up a great photo.
Viewing Fullscreen
For the most immersive view of a Facebook Story, tap the fullscreen icon in the bottom right corner. This will make the Story fill the entire screen.
Once in fullscreen, you can double tap and pinch to zoom in on details. Fullscreen provides the largest view for inspecting small aspects of a photo or video Story.
Zooming on Different Devices
The ability to zoom into Facebook Stories works on both iOS and Android devices. The gestures are the same whether you use an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy. Here are the typical zooming methods available on different devices:
| Device | Zooming Method |
|---|---|
| iPhone/iPad | Pinch to zoom, double tap |
| Android phone/tablet | Pinch to zoom, double tap |
| Computer (web browser) | Scroll to zoom |
Pinching and double tapping work the same on both mobile operating systems. On a computer, you can zoom in and out my scrolling with the trackpad or mouse wheel.
Zooming on Facebook Stories vs Instagram Stories
Facebook Stories and Instagram Stories feature similar zoom functionality. You can pinch to zoom and double tap to view images close up on both platforms. The gestures and controls are the same whether viewing a Story on Facebook or via Instagram.
However, there are a couple minor differences between Facebook and Instagram Stories when zooming:
- Facebook allows fullscreen mode for more immersive viewing and zooming.
- Instagram has a “See More” button on some Stories to provide a zoomed view.
But in general, zooming into Stories works identically across the Facebook and Instagram apps. The same simple gestures give you a magnified view for seeing details.
Troubleshooting Zoom Issues
If you’re having trouble zooming into Facebook Stories, here are some things to try:
- Update the Facebook app to the latest version from your app store.
- Close and relaunch the Facebook app.
- Check that your phone/tablet settings allow pinching and double tapping.
- Try resetting your device if zoom stopped working.
- Report bugs to Facebook if zoom issues persist across devices.
Re-installing the app or rebooting your device typically resolves most zoom problems. Outdated app versions may lack full zoom capability.
Improved Accessibility
The ability to zoom and magnify on Facebook Stories makes them more accessible. Visually impaired users can zoom into Stories and see them in more detail.
Zoom also benefits users with motor impairments who have difficulty with precise motions. Pinching to zoom is a fairly easy gesture for most people to accomplish.
Exploring Stories through simple, magnified touches gives more users the ability to enjoy short-form social content. Facebook’s thoughtful accessibility options ensure everyone can participate.
Conclusion
Zooming into Facebook Stories makes them more engaging and fun to explore. A few taps let you find little details you might otherwise overlook. It’s an intuitive way to see Stories up close.
Next time you see an interesting Story, don’t forget to pinch and double tap. Zooming could uncover a whole new perspective on the image or video.