19-8-2023 (SAN FRANCISCO) In a controversial decision for the social media company he acquired last year, owner Elon Musk revealed on Friday that X (formerly known as Twitter) will be eliminating the block function, which allows users to prevent specific accounts from contacting them, viewing their posts, or following them.
Musk made the announcement on the platform, stating that the block feature will be deleted as a “feature,” with the exception of direct messages (DMs). However, the mute function, which allows users to screen specified accounts without notifying the other user, will be retained.
The billionaire owner has often referred to himself as a staunch supporter of free speech, but critics argue that his approach is irresponsible. Researchers have observed an increase in hate speech and antisemitic content on the platform since Musk’s takeover. Additionally, several governments have accused the company of inadequate content moderation.
The removal or limitation of the block feature could potentially lead to conflicts with the guidelines set by Apple’s App Store and Alphabet’s Google Play. Apple stipulates that apps with user-generated content must include the ability to block abusive users, while Google Play Store requires apps to provide an in-app system for blocking user-generated content and users.
Requests for comments from X, Google, and Apple went unanswered at the time of reporting.
Chief Executive Linda Yaccarino defended Musk’s decision in response to a post from anti-bullying activist Monica Lewinsky, who urged X to preserve the “critical tool to keep people safe online.” Yaccarino stated that user safety on X is the top priority and that they are working on developing a superior alternative to the current state of blocking and muting. She encouraged users to continue providing feedback.
The company has previously announced that Musk will lead the product and engineering teams, while Yaccarino will oversee all other departments, including legal and sales.
