It’s no secret that Twitter’s ongoing efforts to persuade people to subscribe to Twitter Blue have angered many on the platform. Now, in line with these frustrating changes, Twitter recently introduced a new anti-spam update to its Direct Messaging (DM) system, which restricts non-Twitter Blue subscribers from initiating conversations with new users.
While Twitter argues that the new anti-spam update aims to combat unwanted messages, many users question its true intentions, viewing it as a subtle tactic to pressure them into subscribing to the Blue service for normal DM communication. To make matters worse, users who previously opened their DMs to everyone are also affected by the update. This is because Twitter now defaults to only allowing message requests from verified users, making it nearly impossible for non-subscribers to initiate contact without an existing connection.
Interestingly, the new policy treats verified and non-verified users the same. Previously, Twitter Blue subscribers enjoyed a priority section in the recipient’s box, granting their messages prompt visibility. However, with the new change, messages from verified users no longer receive this priority treatment, raising further concerns about the value of the Blue subscription.
“Twitter clearly wants to push more people to pay for verified: I’m ok with this but do NOT change my settings WITHOUT notifying me!” said Twitter user GergelyOrosz.
Struggling Twitter Blue
Despite Elon Musk’s vision of making Twitter a profitable business, the company’s efforts to attract more subscribers have been lackluster at best. This is because features like the Blue checkmark, custom icons, and extended character limits for tweets up to 25,000 have not enticed many users to pay for the service.
Moreover, with Meta’s Threads gaining substantial popularity, there is a legitimate concern that frustrated users will start abandoning the platform. Therefore, Twitter would need to strike a balance between combating spam and facilitating genuine communication.