- tech360.tv
Free Blue Checks Return to Elon Musk's X, Sparking Mixed Reactions
Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, has brought back complimentary blue checks for select users, causing confusion and mixed reactions. The blue checks were previously removed after Musk acquired the platform, and a paid verification system was introduced. Users reported the return of blue checks despite not subscribing to premium services.
In a surprising move, Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, has started reinstating complimentary blue checks for select users, causing confusion and mixed reactions on the platform. The blue checks, which were once synonymous with verification badges for celebrities and influential accounts, had been stripped away from many users after Musk acquired the platform for a staggering $44 billion in October 2022.
Previously, X had introduced a paid verification system, where users had to pay a monthly fee of $8 to obtain the coveted blue check. This decision led to complaints, confusion, and an influx of fake accounts impersonating verified users. However, late Wednesday night and early Thursday, numerous users reported the return of their blue checks, even though they were not subscribed to the premium services.
Last week, Musk announced that all X accounts with more than 2,500 verified subscriber followers would receive Premium features, including the blue check, for free. Accounts with over 5,000 followers would even receive Premium+ for free. The specific reasoning behind this change in policy remains unclear, as X has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Reactions to the reinstatement of blue checks have been mixed. While some users expressed excitement about regaining verification, others voiced frustration. Actress Yvette Nicole Brown, who appeared to have her blue check reinstated, expressed her confusion and stated that she would never pay for such a feature.
The blue check on X has also become a symbol of support for the platform's new ownership and subscription model. As a result, some users have shared instructions on how to remove the blue check through settings changes. It seems that the blue check has taken on a new significance beyond mere verification.
In addition to the blue check controversy, X has been facing pushback from users and advertisers due to concerns about content moderation, the spread of misinformation, and hate speech on the platform. Researchers have noted an increase in such problematic content since Musk took over. Major brands like IBM, NBCUniversal, and Comcast have halted advertising on X after their ads were found alongside content praising Nazis, dealing another blow to the platform's revenue stream.
Musk's response to the advertising boycott was a profanity-laden rant, accusing the companies of "blackmail" and essentially telling them to leave. X has also attempted to sue organizations that have documented hate speech and racism on the platform, including Media Matters and the Center for Countering Digital Hate. However, a federal judge recently dismissed the lawsuit against the latter.
The reinstatement of free blue checks on X has caused a stir among users, with some celebrating their verification status while others question the motives behind the change. As X continues to grapple with content moderation issues and advertiser pushback, the platform faces ongoing challenges in maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.
Elon Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, has brought back complimentary blue checks for select users, causing confusion and mixed reactions.
The blue checks were previously removed after Musk acquired the platform, and a paid verification system was introduced.
Users reported the return of blue checks despite not subscribing to premium services.
Source: AP NEWS