In the past, we used to enjoy using social media for free without paying anything. We were able to use various social media platforms without any interruptions, and we never imagined that one day, they would start offering subscription services.
However, things have changed now, and some social media platforms have started offering such services. Nonetheless, there are no limitations or disruptions, and we can still post and chat with our friends and family without any hassle.
These days, social media has started requiring some subscription services for users to access certain features. Recently, X formally (Twitter) made an announcement regarding the X subscription service. These new features are quite alarming, especially when they are mainstream.
Meanwhile, let's dive deep into these new features, elaborating on what users need to know about the X subscription service.
Social platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced a new subscription as part of its efforts to combat bots and spam, which is good news, as many bots now utilize the platform more than humans.
Meanwhile, under the "Not a Bot" subscription, users will be charged a $1 annual fee for basic features such as likes, reposts, quoting other accounts' posts, and bookmarking posts on the web version of the platform.
Thus, this new X subscription service model aims to ensure authenticity and reduce spam on the platform, which is amazing.
The fee will vary from country to country based on the exchange rate. The initial testing phase of this subscription model will be launched in New Zealand and the Philippines.
Existing users will not be affected by the introduction of the subscription model. This has alleviated old users' concerns about how these new features will affect them.
However, new users who choose not to subscribe will have limited access to the platform, allowing them only to view and read posts, watch videos, and follow accounts, which is somehow like when Web 1 started—the read-only web.
Bots have been a significant concern for X formally (Twitter), particularly after its acquisition by Elon Musk. In an effort to address this issue, X had previously introduced limitations on viewing tweets to maintain the authenticity of its user base.
According to recent reports, X CEO Linda Yaccarino has been exploring different tiers of X subscription service based on the amount of advertising shown to users.
Although X currently offers only one paid plan at $8 per month, there is speculation about introducing three premium tiers, including fully ad-free options.
Moreover, this new X subscription service model marks a departure from X's traditional reliance on advertising for monetization. It reflects the platform's increased focus on combating bots and spam.
X is committed to sharing the results of this program's effectiveness in battling spam and manipulation with its new features.
After its $44 billion acquisition by Elon Musk, X is determined to cut costs and explore alternative revenue streams. The introduction of the subscription model showcases this commitment to profitability.
Moreover, with plans to be profitable by 2024, X is taking proactive steps to ensure a sustainable future for the platform.
Conclusions
The introduction of X's subscription service, "Not a Bot," offers users the opportunity to access enhanced features for a nominal annual fee.
However, this new approach aligns with X's mission to maintain authenticity, combat bots and spam, and ultimately provide a better user experience by eliminating bots from using the platform.