X, formerly known as Twitter, has introduced a series of changes in the past few months. The social network has introduced a paid tier that includes a verified badge and even changes policies when it comes to disinformation. However, in a move that’s been stirring up quite a buzz, X (formerly Twitter) has introduced fresh subscription tiers, catering to diverse user preferences and needs. Let’s dive into the details.
New Premium+ Tier at USD$16/month & Basic Tier at USD$3/month
It looks like Elon Musk’s X is taking monetization very seriously. The social media is introducing two new paid tiers for users. The first is a Premium+ tier. This USD$16 (RM76.20) monthly subscription not only removes ads from your timeline but also grants you a blue checkmark, offering that coveted mark of authenticity.
Premium+ subscribers will also get an algorithmic boost, ensuring your tweets get more attention and replies. It’s essentially a premium experience, perfect for those who want a clutter-free and personalized journey through X.
On the other end of the spectrum, there’s the Basic tier, priced at just $3 (RM14.29) per month. This tier may not include the coveted blue checkmark, but it offers a plethora of other benefits.
Basic subscribers can rejoice in features like tweet editing, longer posts, and the ability to download videos. Additionally, you’ll receive a “small reply boost,” helping you engage more effectively with your audience. Plus, you’ll have encrypted direct messaging for added security.
Both Premium+ and Basic tiers are accessible via the web, avoiding fees associated with app stores. This ensures a seamless experience for users looking to enhance their X journey.
On The Road to a Paid Social Media Platform & Super App
Elon Musk has grand ambitions for the platform. He wants to turn X into an “everything app,” directly challenging platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn. While the specifics of this transformation remain shrouded in mystery, X has been teasing new features like video streaming and job postings, hinting at the platform’s evolving nature.
Musk’s ambitions, however misguided they are, look to leverage Twitter’s social media user base to create an app for everything. There are plans to offer comprehensive communications and financial services, potentially replacing traditional bank accounts.
Monetization or Bot Prevention?
In a recent live-streamed conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Elon Musk disclosed a plan to charge a small fee to every X user. The main objective is to combat the proliferation of bots on the platform.
Musk emphasized that the cost of operating bots would become prohibitively high, making it challenging for individuals or organizations to sustain them. By requiring users to pay a fee with a unique payment method, X aims to eliminate fake accounts effectively.
While Musk didn’t specify the fee’s exact amount, he highlighted the necessity of this change to thwart the vast armies of bots. This strategic move ensures a cleaner and more authentic X experience for users.
As X transitions into a paid platform, the landscape of social media may undergo significant changes. While the exact implementation date remains uncertain, it’s evident that users may need to adjust to this new paradigm. X, with its 550 million users and 100 to 200 million daily posts, is poised for a transformation that may encourage users to explore alternatives.