Blackboard will look a little different at the start of the Spring 2026 semester! Blackboard will be applying an update on January 8, 2026 bringing several enhancements to the user interface.
Based on extensive user feedback, this update is designed to:
- Use screen space more effectively
- Reduce navigation errors (e.g., fewer accidental exits)
- Improve performance and page load times
- Provide clearer context and orientation
- Minimize motion for smoother interaction
Key Enhancements
This article will review the following key enhancements to the Bb interface:
- Full screen course pages that go edge-to-edge
- Home button to replace the purple X to exit a course/return to Base Navigation
- Enhanced header with full-width course banner image
- New course switcher button in the action bar
- Refreshed Base Navigation
Full Screen Course Pages
Course panels (Course Content, Calendar, Announcements, Discussions, Gradebook, Analytics, Groups, Achievements) now occupy the full screen, maximizing horizontal space.
Home Button Replaces "X" to Exit Course
The “X” to exit a course is replaced with a Home button, directing you back to the institution-level landing pages (Activity Stream, Institution, or Courses page). .
The “X” remains on deeper-level panels (like learning modules)
Enhanced Header & Full‑width Banner
- Course ID and title are now visible in the header for clearer context
- Full-width course banners are displayed with improved accessibility (dark mode header for high contrast)
Use Ultra's Unsplash images to select a course banner image or contact UToledo Online’s multimedia designer to create custom banners.
New Course Switcher
Quickly switch between your four most recently accessed courses (or click home to return to Base Navigation and the full list of courses).
Refreshed Base Navigation
Cleaner, decluttered layout with main navigation tabs. Two notable improvements:
- Profile icon now at the top for easy access and customization
- “Sign Out” moved to the bottom of the panel to reduce accidental click out.