Elon Musk's rebranded X is now allowing users to exercise more control over their conversations. The new change on the former Twitter platform will now let them block unverified accounts from replying to their posts.
If this is the kind of saving grace that Musk is looking for, maybe this could be it. He definitely knows that users should get what their money is worth.
Limiting Replies to Verified Users
X users will now have the option to restrict replies to their posts specifically to "verified accounts." In addition to the existing reply options like "everyone," "accounts you follow," and "only accounts you mention," this new choice allows users to curate their conversations more effectively, according to The Verge.
If you lack the coveted blue checkmark, your engagement might be further limited.
While the new "verified accounts" reply option on X holds the potential to reduce the spread of misinformation, it also raises questions about content diversity and engagement. Users may either find it to be a valuable tool for curbing undesirable comments or an underutilized feature.
More Paid Tiers For X Users
The recent change follows Musk's decision to replace traditional blue checkmarks with a subscription service called Twitter Blue, initially priced at $4.99 per month. Subsequently, the Premium subscription was introduced at a higher cost of $8 per month.
The reason why X rolled this out is to enhance the monetization of the platform and offer added value to paying subscribers.
Speaking of which, the platform is now testing to launch three more paid tiers for subscribers. According to @aaronp613's post, X Premium will be classified into three tiers which are Premium Basic (Full Ads), Premium Standard (Half Ads), and Premium Plus (No Ads).
Related Article : X Filled With Disinformation and Fake News About Israel-Hamas War
Paywall Dilemma on X
Elon Musk has been contemplating the introduction of a paywall for all X users to combat the proliferation of bots on the platform. While no specific timeline or pricing details have been confirmed, the concept of requiring a "small monthly payment" for access has been on the table, per Gizmodo.
It should be noted that Musk's track record of implementing grand plans has been inconsistent, and backtracking is not uncommon.
X Appears to Be Tolerating Misinformation
Under Musk's leadership, X has faced scrutiny for becoming a breeding ground for misinformation and hate speech, according to Tech Australia's report.
European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova raised concerns about the platform incentivizing negative content. The presence of disinformation actors with significant followings on the platform has been a cause for worry.
What's more, some users have started to see more chumbox ads. These clickbait advertisements are nothing but hollow posts that only lure the readers to click on them. The worst part here is that you can't report them since the names of the advertisers are nowhere to be seen.
