Focused on combating spam, manipulation, and bot activity on the platform, X, formerly Twitter, has announced the launch of a new subscription method called “Not A Bot”, requiring unverified users to pay $1 annual subscription fee.
This X initiative, which started testing on October 17, 2023, is specifically designed to curb the influence of bots and spammers while ensuring a seamless experience for genuine users. The test is currently active in New Zealand and the Philippines.
How “Not A Bot” Works:
- Phone Verification:
New users in New Zealand and the Philippines are now required to verify their phone numbers when creating an account on X.
- Subscription Plans:
Users have the option to subscribe to the “Not A Bot” program, which involves a nominal annual fee. The subscription cost varies by country and currency, with the following features available to subscribed users:
– Posting content
– Liking posts
– Replying to posts
– Reposting content
– Quoting other accounts’ posts
– Bookmarking posts
- Read-Only Access for Non-Subscribers:
Users who choose not to subscribe will have limited access and can only engage in “read only” actions, such as reading posts, watching videos, and following accounts.
X emphasizes that existing users will not be affected by this test, which is exclusively applicable to new accounts in the specified countries. The “Not A Bot” program is part of X’s broader strategy to enhance platform security and user experience by reducing the impact of bots and spammers.
The implementation of this subscription model is based on X’s goal of striking a balance between accessibility and security. Phone verification and introduction of subscription plans is aimed at creating a more authentic and trustworthy environment for users while minimizing the disruptive influence of malicious actors.
X encourages users to review the “Not A Bot Terms and Conditions” before participating in the program. Further updates on the outcomes of this initiative will be shared in due course as X continues to refine its strategies to ensure the platform’s integrity and reliability.
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