Twitter, the popular social media platform, is reportedly planning to eliminate its feature that allows users to block unwanted followers. This decision comes after the site’s owner, Elon Musk, expressed his view that the feature “makes no sense.” However, the implementation of this change may prove challenging, as major app stores typically require platforms to have a built-in blocking option.
Musk announced the upcoming elimination of the block button in a tweet on Friday, stating that it will be removed as a “feature” except for direct messages. When prompted by another user about the reasons for blocking someone versus muting them, Musk further emphasized his stance by saying that blocking “makes no sense.”
The billionaire entrepreneur did not provide further details regarding his decision to get rid of the block feature. However, he has previously expressed his opposition to it and suggested replacing it with a “stronger form of mute.” Currently, the mute option allows users to hide followers from their feed, while still allowing the muted account to view their content. Blocking, on the other hand, prevents any future interaction between the two users.
Musk has also voiced concerns about “giant block lists” on Twitter, which are downloadable catalogs of accounts that users can block in bulk. He believes that these lists can disrupt the platform’s recommendation system.
However, implementing the elimination of the block feature could prove complicated due to the requirements set by app store giants, Google and Apple. Google’s Play Store mandates that applications include an in-app system for blocking user-generated content and users. Similarly, Apple requires apps hosted on its store to have the ability to block abusive users from the service.
As of now, Musk has not provided specific details about how the blocking option will be handled or whether it will be replaced by an alternative. He only mentioned that users would still be able to block unwanted direct messages.
It is important to note that Musk acquired Twitter in a $44 billion buy-out deal last year. Since then, he has expressed his intention to overhaul the platform and has already made some significant changes, such as revamping the “blue check” system to introduce a paid subscription service. Musk has also expressed his vision of creating an “everything app” called X, of which Twitter would be just one aspect.
In conclusion, Twitter is set to remove its block feature, according to Elon Musk. The implementation of this change may face challenges due to the requirements of major app stores. Musk has not provided specific details about how this change will be handled, but he has emphasized that users will still be able to block unwanted direct messages.
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