Highlights

• X initiates “Not a Bot” test program, requiring new users in New Zealand and the Philippines to pay a $1 annual fee for posting and interaction.
• Existing users and premium subscribers exempt from the new fee; limited access for non-subscribers.
• Initiative aims to counter spam, platform manipulation, and bot activity, aligning with Musk’s prior suggestions.

X formerly known as Twitter, has announced a test of its “Not a Bot” program.

The company has been steadily finding ways to diversify its revenue possibilities and not just rely on the ad model.

This new program could potentially be the stepping stone for this.

Aimed initially at new users in New Zealand and the Philippines, this program will require a $1 annual subscription for the privilege to post and interact with content.

Who Will Have to Pay a Subscription?

The subscription test is only for new web accounts and does not affect existing users. New users can escape this fee by signing up for X’s $3.99 per month premium service.

Those who do not subscribe will be limited to a ‘read-only’ mode—able to see posts and follow accounts but not interact.

X has stated that the annual fee aims to reduce spam, platform manipulation, and bot activity.

In addition, the test resonates with Elon Musk’s earlier suggestions of reducing spam by making credit card payments a requirement for new accounts.

Besides dodging the $1 fee, Premium subscribers also receive incentives like a blue checkmark, algorithmic boosting of posts, and even eligibility for an ad revenue share program.

Reaction to X’s Payment Plans

There has been a lot of turmoil in terms of the court of public opinion ever since Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter.

There has been some positive feedback with things like the edit button and the use of paid verified badges.

However, people have been quick to criticize the fundamental shift in information being disseminated on the platform.

One can argue that requiring a minimal fee creates a barrier that could effectively reduce spam and bot accounts.

It also represents another revenue stream for X, which has been pushing its Blue subscription services in various creative ways.

On the flip side, such a fee might discourage genuine new users, particularly those from lower-income demographics or countries.

For a platform that thrives on user engagement and growth, putting up a financial barrier, however small, might just backfire.

The extent to which this will deter bots and spammers is unknown.
Sophisticated spamming operations can easily overcome such minor financial hurdles.

Moreover, it raises ethical questions about internet accessibility and freedom of information.

FAQs

What is the “Not a Bot” program by X?

The “Not a Bot” program is a test initiative by X requiring new users in New Zealand and the Philippines to pay a $1 annual fee to post and interact on the platform.

Who is exempt from this subscription fee?

Existing users and those who opt for the $3.99 monthly premium service are not required to pay the $1 annual fee.

What is the main aim behind this program?

X claims that the program aims to reduce spam and bot activities on the platform by imposing a nominal financial barrier for new accounts.

How has the public reacted to this initiative?

The announcement has garnered mixed reviews. Some appreciate the move as a step toward a cleaner platform, while others criticize it for potentially limiting access and engagement.

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