Social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, said on Tuesday it will test a new subscription model under which it will charge $1 annual fee for basic features
According to Reuters, the new subscription, termed “Not A Bot” will charge users for likes, reposts or quoting other accounts’ posts, and bookmarking posts on the web version of the platform.
X said introducing the new subscription model is to combat bots and spammers, adding that the fee will vary from country to country based on the exchange rate.
The company said the new method will be first available for users in New Zealand and the Philippines.
Within this test, existing users are not affected. However new users who would not wish to subscribe will only be able to view and read posts, watch videos and follow accounts.
Bots have been a contentious issue for Elon Musk, who acquired the company last year. In July, X had introduced a limit on viewing tweets “to ensure the authenticity” of its user base.
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Earlier this month, Reuters reported that X CEO Linda Yaccarino met with X’s lenders, citing a source. She said the company would test three tiers of its subscription service based on the number of ads shown to the user.
The new subscription model from X is a notable departure from the company’s previous approach to monetization, which has relied primarily on advertising. The move also shows the company’s growing focus on combating bots and spam.
It remains to be seen whether the new subscription model will be successful. The $1 annual fee is relatively low, but it is unclear how many users will be willing to pay for basic features that are currently free.
The model could also raise concerns about equity and access. Users in countries with weaker currencies may find it more challenging to afford the subscription fee. Additionally, users who cannot afford the subscription fee may be disadvantaged regarding their ability to engage with the platform.
Overall, the new subscription model from X is an interesting experiment that could significantly impact the company’s future.
