The social media platform X, which was previously Twitter, announced on Friday that it will eliminate the feature allowing users to block other accounts, a decision made by owner Elon Musk that has sparked considerable debate.
The blocking feature currently enables users to prevent specific accounts from interacting with them, viewing their content, or following them.
“Block is going to be deleted as a ‘feature’, except for DMs,” Musk stated in a post on the service, referring specifically to direct messages.
Block is going to be deleted as a “feature”, except for DMs
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 18, 2023
Musk indicated that while the block feature would be removed, the mute function would remain intact. This feature allows users to avoid seeing posts from selected accounts without notifying the blocked parties.
Musk has positioned himself as a proponent of absolute free speech; however, some critics argue that his policies may be reckless. Studies have indicated a rise in hate speech and antisemitic material on the platform since Musk’s acquisition, provoking concerns from governments about inadequate content moderation.
The potential removal of the block feature raises concerns regarding compliance with the policies set by major app stores, including Apple’s App Store and Google Play. Apple mandates that applications facilitating user-generated content must enable users to block abusive accounts, while Google has a similar requirement for in-app blocking systems.
Neither X, Google, nor Apple responded promptly to requests for further information.
In response to a comment from anti-bullying advocate Monica Lewinsky, who called for the retention of the “critical tool to keep people safe online,” X’s CEO Linda Yaccarino defended the changes. She stated, “Our users’ safety on X is our number one priority. And we’re building something better than the current state of block and mute. Please keep the feedback coming.”
The leadership structure of the company has Musk overseeing product and engineering teams, while Yaccarino manages all other departments, including legal and sales.
© Thomson Reuters 2023
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