Social media company X, previously recognized as Twitter, is set to eliminate a significant safeguard that enables users to block other accounts. This revelation was unveiled by none other than the company’s owner, Elon Musk, on Friday. Musk’s latest move has ignited debates around the company’s direction since his acquisition last year.
The feature in question, the “block” function, empowers users to curtail interactions from specific accounts, rendering them unable to contact, view posts, or follow. In a post shared on the platform, Musk disclosed, “Block is going to be deleted as a ‘feature,’ except for DMs,” referring to direct messages. While this step is aimed at redefining user experiences, it also retains the potential to provoke controversy.
In this context, Musk’s decision aligns with his assertion as a staunch advocate of free speech. However, critics perceive this approach as potentially irresponsible. Disturbingly, researchers have identified an upsurge in hate speech and antisemitic content on the platform under his stewardship. Governments have not been silent either, accusing the company of inadequate content moderation efforts. By altering or restricting the block feature, Social media company X could find itself in a clash with the content guidelines of Apple’s App Store and Alphabet’s Google Play.
Apple’s directive mandates apps with user-generated content to include mechanisms for blocking abusive users. Correspondingly, Google Play Store stipulates that apps must furnish an in-app system for obstructing user-generated content and users.
Requests for commentary from X, Google, and Apple were met with initial silence. Responding to an entreaty from anti-bullying advocate Monica Lewinsky, who urged X to retain the “critical tool to keep people safe online,” Chief Executive Linda Yaccarino came forward in defense of Musk’s maneuver. She asserted, “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 company’s strategy positions Musk as the leader of the product and engineering teams, while Yaccarino spearheads all other divisions, encompassing legal and sales. This bold step by Musk underscores his ongoing influence in shaping the platform’s trajectory and ignites conversations regarding the delicate balance between free expression and online safety.
