Elon Musk Announces Removal of Blocking Feature on X, Formerly Twitter

In a surprising move, Elon Musk, the head of X (formerly known as Twitter), has declared the impending removal of the platform's blocking feature, citing its perceived lack of utility. This decision has stirred both support and concern among social media users.

Under the existing system, when a user blocks an account, it effectively prevents that account's posts from appearing in the blocker's timeline, and vice versa. Moreover, blocked accounts are barred from sending messages to the blocker and from viewing their posts.

Musk has clarified that while the blocking feature will be discontinued, users will retain the ability to prevent others from directly messaging them. This move aligns with Musk's vision for X, which he has transformed significantly since acquiring it in a massive $44 billion deal last year.

Jack Dorsey, the former founder of Twitter, appeared to endorse Musk's decision, asserting, "100%. Mute only." However, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of muting as a protective measure against harassment, abuse, or stalking. Currently, muting only suppresses notifications related to an account's posts, permitting the muted account to continue viewing the muter's posts and responding to them.

Critics argue that eliminating the blocking feature could be a substantial misstep, as it might compel users to interact with individuals they vehemently disagree with or wish to avoid entirely. Moreover, this decision could potentially run afoul of the terms and conditions of prominent app stores like Apple's App Store and Google Play, which stipulate that social media applications must provide tools to filter out harassment or bullying.

The fate of accounts currently blocked remains uncertain should this policy be implemented. Users, however, have the alternative of making their accounts private, thereby concealing their tweets from the public and permitting only approved followers to access their posts.

Elon Musk, the world's wealthiest individual, has implemented several changes to the social media site since his takeover, including the removal of the company's top executive team and the introduction of fees for the platform's "blue tick" verification feature.

While Musk is a prolific poster on X, known for his whimsical and often non-committal ideas shared with his 153 million followers, X itself rarely responds to inquiries from journalists, making it challenging to verify statements made on behalf of the platform. Nonetheless, as its owner, Musk's declarations carry significant weight.

The removal of the block button, a long-standing tool for those seeking refuge from online attacks, bullying, or strong disagreements, has sparked debate. When users report an account, one of the common recommendations is to either block or mute it during the investigation process. Muting an account effectively renders it invisible to the user, but it still allows the muted account to see the user's activity. Being compelled to remain visible to someone one wishes to avoid or fears appears to be an unusual development.

Musk has repeatedly emphasized his desire for X to serve as a "digital town square" where all voices are heard. However, this approach may bring X into conflict with app store terms and conditions as well as social media regulations aimed at safeguarding users from online harms. The platform's evolving landscape will undoubtedly continue to provoke discussion in the digital sphere.

Source: BBC