In a move that has left many scratching their heads, X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, has begun distributing free Premium and Premium Plus subscriptions to accounts with significant followings. This initiative has sparked mixed reactions among users, with some feeling unimpressed by the gesture.
Several influential X accounts recently noticed the addition of a blue "verified" checkmark next to their handles, despite not having purchased a premium subscription. This unexpected development came after Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur, announced via Twitter last week that X would be bestowing Premium subscriptions upon accounts with over 2,500 verified followers, while those with over 5,000 followers would receive a Premium Plus subscription.
The move marks a significant departure from Twitter's previous practices. Historically, the blue checkmark was bestowed upon accounts deemed influential within the public eye, such as celebrities or reputable organizations. This verification served as a means for users to distinguish authentic accounts from impersonators and scammers.
However, following Musk's acquisition of the social media platform and its subsequent rebranding as X, the checkmark underwent a transformation into a perk reserved for Premium and Premium Plus account holders. Accounts that had previously been granted the badge found themselves obligated to purchase a subscription to retain their "verified" status.
In response to widespread backlash, X swiftly reinstated the blue checks for users with over 1 million followers. Yet, this requirement has now been revised, with X granting blue checks free of charge to users who, in many cases, express disinterest in the distinction. Some users have even sought ways to opt out of the verification process, discovering a setting that enables them to hide the mark from their profiles.
The reaction to this move has been varied, with some users expressing gratitude for the unexpected perk, while others question the necessity of the blue checkmark altogether. Tweets from users like Peter Kafka, emptywheel, and thegrugq reflect a sentiment of surprise and, in some cases, frustration with the involuntary verification process.
As X continues to navigate its evolution under Musk's leadership, it remains to be seen how users will adapt to these changes and what further alterations may lie ahead for the platform's features and policies.
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