San Francisco, USA – When Elon Musk sought to acquire Twitter in 2022, his initial intentions centered around restoring “free speech” on the platform. However, his journey towards acquiring the company was marred by a series of twists and turns, culminating in a $44 billion leveraged buyout.
Musk’s vision included dismantling the dual-class system he deemed unfair, particularly focusing on the distribution of blue check marks to verified accounts. In an attempt to democratize the platform, Musk criticized the existing hierarchy and proposed a subscription model that would grant users access to these features.
One year later, Musk made a controversial decision to revoke blue check marks from users who did not subscribe to his paid service. This move was met with mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a bold step towards equity while others criticized it as a profit-driven strategy.
Despite Musk’s efforts to position the removal of blue check marks as a form of democratization, critics pointed out the underlying financial motives behind the decision. By monetizing user subscriptions, Musk aimed to reduce the platform’s reliance on advertisers and their influence over content moderation standards.
The introduction of X Premium, formerly known as Twitter Blue, further solidified the importance of the blue check mark as a premium feature. With time, Musk expanded the offering to include additional benefits, attracting prominent figures and enhancing their credibility on the platform.
However, Musk faced backlash in April 2023 when he abruptly removed blue check marks from individuals who previously held them. This move sparked a debate about the significance of verification badges in distinguishing reliable sources of information on the platform.
As users grappled with the implications of Musk’s decisions, chaos ensued when individuals could purchase blue check marks for a nominal fee. The resulting confusion led to instances of impersonation and misinformation, highlighting the potential risks of a unchecked system.
In a bid to rectify his missteps, Musk began reinstating blue check marks to select accounts, offering free access to premium features. This gesture was met with skepticism from some recipients who clarified that they did not pay for verification and emphasized their independence from Musk’s initiatives.
Despite the ongoing developments on the platform, the debate around blue check marks continues to raise questions about authenticity, credibility, and the evolving dynamics of social media verification. Musk’s journey with Twitter serves as a cautionary tale about the intersection of power, privilege, and profit in the digital age.