Ben HJul 29, 2023
I heard it mentioned that you can follow a hashtag here, but can't quite make that happen. Can I get a hand?
Show threadShawn "Fruan" Poulsen

@zer0kill It looks like you're posting from the Official App, which doesn't currently have the interface for that.

Via the web interface when you search a hashtag, there should be the little 'follow' icon.

Jul 29, 2023 at 5:34amWeb
Show threadBen HJul 29, 2023
@Fruan that would indeed explain it. I just kind of assumed the official app would do everything.
Show threadShawn "Fruan" PoulsenJul 29, 2023

@zer0kill I'm not exactly sure why the official app is terrible, but it is.

I don't use Android myself, so I can't speak to it, but @Texan_Reverend has a thread on his recommendations here:

https://kind.social/@Texan_Reverend/110584196834249023

Texan_Reverend (@[email protected])

I'm going to formally take the stance that the Mastodon PWA is the best app to start with on Android. iOS won't allow it to push notifications, so I can't recommend it as easily unless you don't mind that or workarounds. The PWA (Progressive Web App) is basically the mobile-formatted website in a standalone app shell. It doesn't hide options or features like many apps do - including the official one. It also makes clear when a profile isn't displaying all their posts due to federation quirks. 1/

Be More Kind
Show threadTexan_ReverendJul 29, 2023
@Fruan @zer0kill Unfortunately, all too many people make the reasonable assumption that the official app would do everything the website software does, only to wind up confused and/or disappointed. This only worsens the perception of Mastodon as being too confusing.
My recommendation for an official app experience that is more complete would be the Mastodon PWA (Progressive Web App.)
It's basically the mobile site in a standalone app with push notification support. More details in that thread.