Since Elon Musk’s takeover, Twitter, now rebranded as X, has undergone significant changes. Previously free features, including the coveted blue tick, are now part of the Premium subscription package. Notably, a new subscription initiative has been unveiled, demanding a fee for new account creation. This move aims to curtail bot accounts and reduce spam on the platform. The ‘Not A Bot’ program on Twitter X entails a nominal $1 annual charge, a small investment for a cleaner, more authentic user experience. This change underscores X’s dedication to platform security and integrity. While adjustments might raise questions, they represent a step towards a more reliable and engaging social media environment.
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Twitter X Considering $1 Annual Fee for New Accounts
X has introduced a new test program called ‘Not A Bot,’ which will charge you $1 a year for signing up on the platform. So, if you are planning to step into the X world finally, you must pay a small amount before using it.
The subscription service aims to reduce the number of bot accounts on the platform so there’s less spam. X says this has been “developed to bolster our already successful efforts to reduce spam, manipulation of our platform, and bot activity while balancing platform accessibility with the small fee amount. It is not a profit driver. “
If you are signing up for the first time, you must verify your phone number and then choose the ‘Not A Bot’ program to enable functionalities like posting, liking posts, reposting, quoting, and more. There will also be an option to go for the X Premium plan. If you don’t want to pay at all, you will only have the ability to read posts, follow others, and watch videos.
Twitter X is testing this in New Zealand and the Philippines for “new accounts on the web.” New Zealand will cost NZD 1.43 per year; in the Philippines, there will be a charged of PHP 42.51 per year. There’s no word on whether or not it will reach other countries; it depends on how people receive this test!
Today, we’re testing a new program (Not A Bot) in New Zealand and the Philippines
New, unverified accounts require you to sign up for a $1 annual subscription to be able to post & interact with other posts. Within this test, There is no issue for existing users.
This new test was developed to bolster our already successful efforts to reduce spam, manipulation of our platform, and bot activity while balancing platform accessibility with the small fee amount. It is not a profit driver.
And so far, subscription options have proven to be the leading solution that works at scale.
As of October 17th, 2023, we’ve started testing “Not A Bot,” a new subscription method for new users in two countries. This new test was developed to bolster our already significant efforts to reduce spam, manipulation of our platform, and bot activity. This will evaluate a potentially powerful measure to help us combat bots and spammers on X while balancing platform accessibility with the small fee amount. It will not affect existing users.
Here’s how this new test will work for new accounts on the web in New Zealand and the Philippines:
Step One: Phone Verification
New accounts on X in these two countries will first be required to verify their phone number.
Step Two: Select Your Subscription Plan
USD 1 Annual Fee (prices vary by country and currency). New users can perform specific actions on the platform’s web version: post content, Like posts, Reply, Repost and Quote other accounts’ posts, and Bookmark posts.
FAQs
Why is Twitter X implementing a $1 annual fee for new accounts?
Twitter X is introducing this fee as a measure to reduce the number of bot accounts and spam on their platform. It is aimed at maintaining a cleaner and more authentic user experience.
Will the subscription program affect existing users?
Introducing the ‘Not A Bot’ program does not affect existing users. This fee applies only to new, unverified accounts in specific regions.
Can users opt for the X Premium instead of the ‘Not A Bot’ program?
Users can choose the X Premium plan, which offers additional features and functionalities. However, it comes at a different price point.
How much does the subscription cost in different regions?
In New Zealand, the subscription fee is NZD 1.43 per year. In the Philippines, it is PHP 42.51 per year.
Is the $1 fee a profit-making initiative for Twitter X?
Twitter X plans to intend the fee not as a profit driver but as a means to enhance platform security and primarily reduce spam.
Wrap Up
Twitter X now charges $1 yearly for new accounts in certain regions to improve user experience and counteract spam. The ‘Not A Bot’ program aims to maintain genuine interactions and meaningful content on the platform. Existing users need not worry about any changes. While this step may raise questions, it ultimately signifies Twitter X’s commitment to providing a secure and engaging social media environment.
Remember, this subscription fee is not a profit-making venture for Twitter X. Instead, it reflects their dedication to maintaining platform integrity. Program tested in NZ and PH. Awaiting user feedback. Hopeful for expansion to more regions. This move is another step towards a more authentic and spam-free Twitter experience.
Selva Ganesh is the Chief Editor of this Blog. He is a Computer Science Engineer, An experienced Android Developer, Professional Blogger with 8+ years in the field. He completed courses about Google News Initiative. He runs Android Infotech which offers Problem Solving Articles around the globe.
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