The social media platform X was once known as Twitter, a name that carried recognition and cultural significance. Twitter started as a simple way for friends to check in on each other and post short updates about their lives. Over time, it evolved into one of the most influential social media platforms, shaping conversations in real time. It became a platform where politicians, celebrities, journalists, and everyday users could share their thoughts instantly. However, after Elon Musk purchased Twitter in 2022, the app underwent dramatic changes. So much so that many users feel it will never be the same again.
The platform’s content moderation policies and algorithm changes have also caused major concerns. With Musk’s growing involvement in politics and his public stances on various issues, skepticism toward the algorithm has increased. Many users feel that their "For You" feed no longer reflects their interests but is instead driven by paid content and accounts favored by Musk himself.
Another major change that sparked debate was the overhaul of the verification system. In the past, the blue checkmark was a status symbol that signified credibility and authenticity, typically awarded to public figures based on their influence and identity verification. Verification is now a paid feature for anyone, only for a monthly subscription. This led to a decline in trust, as users could no longer easily distinguish between credible sources and those willing to pay for a checkmark.
Ultimately, Twitter was more than just a social media app, but with its transformation into X, the platform has lost much of the power and attraction it once had. Many users have left for alternatives like Threads, while others remain out of habit or curiosity about what X might become.
I had completely forgotten about X's old logo, the blue bird! It seems like it has been so long since the rebranding of the app even though it's only been a few years!
ReplyDeleteTo be quite honest, I don't use X or what was once known as Twitter. Prior to this class I didn't realize that Twitter had undergone a name and logo change. I have to say though, making the verification symbol a paid feature does users such a disservice. Rather than identifying the checkmark to find reputable, authentic people, the checkmark is simply a checkmark. I just don't think all of the changes were necessary or beneficial.
ReplyDeleteThe entire rebranding of X through me off guard, initially. I feel like we are kind of getting to a point in society now where we don't even use the word "Twitter" anymore and we've all accepted that it is X now. Like Allayna commented above, I honestly forgot about the blue bird logo too. Now that a few years have gone by, we've seemed to accept the new normal.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! You did a great job capturing why X has seen such a decline. The rebranding to X definitely confused a lot of long-time users, and the changes to verification and content moderation have definitely made it feel less trustworthy. It’s interesting to see how the platform has evolved, but it’s clear that a lot of users miss the Twitter they knew. I’m curious to see where X goes from here!
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