New Delhi: In 2022, Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, acquired the social media platform Twitter for a staggering $44 billion. Since then, he has wasted no time in implementing significant changes. Let’s delve into the details:
1. Complete Transformation: From Domain Name to Core Systems
- Domain Name Change: The social media platform, previously known by a different domain, has undergone a complete transformation. Musk’s ownership led to a rebranding, leaving behind the old name and adopting a new one. The platform now operates under the domain x.com.
- Core Systems Migration: Elon Musk himself announced that all core systems are now hosted on x.com. This migration ensures better performance, security, and scalability for Twitter users.
2. Transparency and Privacy
- Message on Login Page: When users log in, they are greeted with a message at the bottom of the login page. It informs them about the URL change but assures that their privacy and data protection settings will remain unchanged. This move emphasizes transparency during the transition.
3. Monetization Strategies
- Blue Tick Verification: Previously, Twitter granted blue ticks (verification badges) to accounts of public interest for free. However, Musk has introduced a new approach. Users can now obtain the coveted blue tick by subscribing to Twitter Blue, a premium service. The cost? $8 per month. This change aims to empower users while generating revenue for the platform.
- Subscription Pricing: If you’re a laptop or computer user, the Blue subscription costs Rs 650 per month. Mobile users pay Rs 900. With this subscription, you gain access to exclusive features, including the blue tick verification.
- Tweet Editing Restrictions: In the past, users without a subscription could edit their tweets freely. However, Musk’s Twitter now restricts tweet editing for non-subscribers. This move encourages users to consider the premium service.
4. Executive Shake-Up
- Board Dissolution: Musk dissolved Twitter’s board, including key executives, upon taking over. Parag Agrawal (former CEO), Ned Segal (CFO), and Vijaya Gadde (head of legal, policy, and trust) were among those let go. Musk now leads the company as the sole director.
- New Leadership Team: As the de facto CEO, Musk has assembled a team of trusted associates, including his personal attorney, Alex Spiro, and tech investors Jason Calacanis and David Sacks.
Elon Musk’s vision for Twitter is ambitious, and these changes signal a new era for the platform. Users can expect further developments as Musk continues to steer the social media giant toward uncharted territory. Whether these changes will resonate positively with advertisers and the Twitter community remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Twitter will never be the same under Musk’s ownership.
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