Elon Musk’s social media company ” X,” previously known as Twitter, intends to remove a protective feature that permits users to block other accounts, according to a statement by its owner, Elon Musk. This move has generated controversy and adds to the array of contentious decisions since Musk acquired the company last year.
The block function on X empowers users to restrict specific accounts from contacting them, viewing their posts, or following them. Musk posted on the platform, announcing the removal of the block feature as a ‘feature,’ with the exception of direct messages, commonly referred to as DMs. Additionally, Musk indicated that X will retain the mute function, which discreetly screens specific accounts from a user’s view, distinct from blocking, without notifying the blocked account.
“Free speech”
Elon Musk The billionaire owner of X has consistently identified himself as a staunch advocate of free speech, though critics contend that his approach might lack responsibility. Evidently, research has detected a surge in hate speech and anti-Semitic content on the platform since Musk’s takeover. Moreover, some governments have accused the company of insufficient content moderation.
The potential removal or limitation of the block feature might initiate conflicts with guidelines enforced by Apple‘s App Store and Alphabet’s Google Play. Both platforms stipulate that apps featuring user-generated content must possess the ability to block abusive users. Specifically, the Google Play Store mandates apps to incorporate an in-app system for blocking user-generated content and users.
Responses from X, Google, and Apple regarding this development are still awaited.In response to a post by anti-bullying activist Monica Lewinsky, beseeching X to retain the “critical tool for ensuring online safety,” Chief Executive Linda Yaccarino defended Musk’s decision. Yaccarino emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to user safety on X and revealed ongoing efforts to introduce a superior alternative to the existing block and mute functions.
In terms of organizational responsibilities, X has articulated that Musk would spearhead the product and engineering teams, while Yaccarino would oversee all other departments, including legal and sales.