Elon Musk has announced that X, formerly known as Twitter, will start charging new users a “small fee” to post, like, and perform other actions on the platform. This decision is part of an effort to reduce the number of bots and spam accounts, which have been a significant issue on the platform. Musk has stated that this measure is the “only way” to combat the “relentless onslaught of bots” and ensure a more authentic user experience.
New X users will be required to pay a small annual fee before they can perform any actions, including posting, liking, bookmarking, and replying. However, those who choose not to pay the fee will still be able to follow other accounts and read posts for free. After a three-month waiting period, new users will be able to post without paying the fee. The fee is expected to be around $1, as it costs $1.75 NZD in New Zealand.
Last October, X began charging new unverified users $1 per year in New Zealand and the Philippines. This was an initial step towards testing the feasibility and impact of such a policy on the platform’s bot problem.
This new policy follows a previous test in New Zealand and the Philippines, where new unverified users were required to pay a small annual fee. The implementation of this policy aims to improve the overall quality of the platform and make it more enjoyable for genuine users.
Moreover, Musk’s decision to charge new users for posting on the platform is also aimed at increasing the quality of content and interactions on X. By implementing a paywall, Musk believes that the platform can better manage the influx of spam and fake accounts that have been a source of concern for many users.
However, the introduction of this fee has sparked a debate on whether it will deter new users from joining the platform. Critics argue that the fee could limit the platform’s growth and make it less accessible to a wider audience. Supporters, on the other hand, believe that the fee is a necessary measure to ensure the platform’s long-term sustainability and user satisfaction.
Despite the controversy surrounding the announcement, it is clear that Elon Musk is determined to address the bot problem on X and to create a more engaging and authentic social media experience for its users. Whether the introduction of a fee for new users will achieve these goals remains to be seen, but it is a bold step towards reshaping the social media landscape.
