in the next couple of days we will introduce changes in the way images are stored on our servers. With over 40m images currently online, it has become a tremendous task to manage those.
Over the next few weeks we will introduce new image functionality and the step outlined below, is the first to make this happen.
Currently all our images are organized in grouped folders which prevented us to introduce a proper (and fast) image gallery. With the changes tomorrow (Tuesday, 21/2/2012) each user will get his/her own image directory. We will also look at introducing at least one level of subfolders where you can organize your images (i.e. "/Coins", "/Craft" etc).
What does this mean for you? Right now nothing visibly will change (other than the image URL will have now your userid in it). Going forward the item-creation pages and image gallery and upload functions will change. At some point, you will not be able to browse your old images (but will be able to relist your current trades with those same old images).
In future you will also be able to upload multiple thumbnails per trade (think image caroussel per trade).
At some point, you will not be able to browse your old images (but will be able to relist your current trades with those same old images).
So we should save all our gallery pics in the meantime then, especially items that have closed already and that may be listed again later?
You will always be able to relist closed trades and re-use the old images - the only thing you will not be able to do is, view your old images through the gallery, but they will still be there.
Welcome back, Mac. Hope you had a wonderful trip overseas.
It is always best to have back-ups of your images. Gremlins get busy occasionally and pics are lost!