In an attempt to refine user engagement and minimize undesirable interactions, X, a prominent social media platform, has launched a new feature enabling users to restrict post replies to verified accounts. The move follows months of testing and aims to offer users increased control over their online interactions within the app.
X already boasted three reply control options, introduced back in 2021. The new addition, “Verified accounts,” allows users to further filter responses, limiting engagement to verified users or those who subscribe to the platform’s Premium package. While this feature may appeal to individuals seeking interactions with like-minded users, it raises questions regarding inclusivity and the democratic nature of social media.
Currently, less than 0.5% of X’s user base is subscribed to the Premium package. This implies that a vast majority of users won’t have access to replies in such filtered conversations. Given that only 20% of users actively post on the platform, limiting replies to a fraction of the overall audience seems counterproductive, potentially hindering engagement and discouraging participation.
It’s important to note that the majority of X’s engagement comes from replies, re-posts, and quotes. Monetization opportunities for creators are tied to ads displayed within post replies, particularly those shown to verified users. By restricting replies to a narrow demographic, X risks limiting the monetizable interactions for its creators.
Furthermore, this move may inadvertently establish a class system within the platform, favoring those who can afford verification or subscribe to the Premium package. While verification is intended to combat bot activity and provide a revenue pathway, it may also exacerbate existing inequalities and hinder the free flow of diverse opinions.
To entice more users to opt for X Premium subscriptions, the platform plans to introduce tiered pricing packages, making certain features exclusive to subscribers. These include the upcoming video call option and Premium-only polls, attempting to add value to the subscription model. However, the success of these incentives in driving subscription uptake remains uncertain.
In conclusion, X’s decision to offer the option to restrict post replies to verified users is a double-edged sword. While it grants increased control to some users, it potentially limits engagement and inclusivity. Balancing the need for revenue generation and maintaining an inclusive and diverse online community remains a significant challenge for the platform as it charts its course in the evolving landscape of social media.
