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Elon Musk Removes Ability for X Premium Users to Hide Blue Checkmarks
Elon Musk has made the decision to eliminate the option for X Premium users to conceal their blue checkmarks, a feature that has transitioned from a status symbol on Twitter to a perceived acknowledgment of purchasing ads. The notification regarding this change was distributed to users on Thursday.
Alterations to X’s Blue Checkmark Policy
Over the past year, the blue checkmark system on X has undergone numerous modifications. Recently, Musk revived a former Twitter guideline that he once described as a “lords & peasants system for who has or doesn’t have a blue checkmark” back in 2022. This was shortly followed by the introduction of a subscription model where users are required to pay $8 per month for premium features that were previously free. X now automatically grants blue checkmarks to popular users, in addition to offering the option to purchase verification.
Upon receiving blue checkmarks without their consent, the X community reacted strongly. Many users voiced their objection to paying for this feature and promptly sought ways to hide the blue checkmark. This turn of events signifies a decline in the esteem once associated with Twitter’s verification service, with the blue checkmark now being interpreted as tacit approval of the platform’s controversial owner, a billionaire.
Transitioning Away from the Hidden Status Feature
The ability to conceal blue checkmarks was first introduced in August 2023 with the objective of promoting X Premium subscriptions without subjecting users to potential embarrassment associated with the checkmark. However, it appears that this “hidden status” capability is soon to be discontinued, likely within a year of its inception.
As a result of these changes, many prominent X users with blue checkmarks now find themselves at a crossroads. They must decide whether to retain their checkmark and face potential scrutiny, or alternatively cease using the platform altogether. This dilemma has the potential to drive numerous content creators, who have established a following on X, to explore alternative platforms like Threads or rival services to Twitter.
Elon Musk’s style of governance on X is characterized by ultimatums, whereby users are compelled to adhere to his directives or seek alternatives. This approach is reminiscent of Musk’s directive to advertisers to conform to his “free speech policies” or face consequences. Similarly, his warning to Cybertruck owners regarding penalties if they resell their vehicle within the first year illustrates a pattern of stringent control in Musk’s domain of X.
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