Twitter Overhaul: Musk's Plan Includes job losses, premium user accounts
Elon Musk, now known as the "Chief Twit," has introduced significant changes to Twitter since taking over the company. One of the most notable changes is the implementation of paid verification for accounts, a move that has sparked debate among users and raised concerns about the authenticity of accounts.
1. **The Announcement and Pricing**
In October 2022, Musk announced plans to revamp Twitter's verification system, initially proposing a price increase for Twitter Blue from $4.99 to $19.99 per month. Users were given a 90-day grace period to subscribe or risk losing their verification status. However, following criticism, Musk suggested reducing the price to $7.99 per month[1].
2. **The Launch and Adjustments**
The launch of the paid verification program was delayed until after the U.S. midterm elections due to concerns about potential election interference[3]. On November 9, 2022, Twitter launched the revamped verification program, allowing users to purchase a Twitter Blue subscription for verification. However, this was halted due to impersonation issues before being relaunched on December 12, 2022, with different checkmarks for businesses and government accounts[3].
3. **The Benefits**
Paid verified users receive priority in mentions, replies, and searches, fewer ads, longer video uploads, and exclusive features like tweet editing and NFT profile pictures[4]. Additional benefits include app icon customization, two-factor authorization, and a bookmark folder for easy thread management[4].
4. **The Removal of Legacy Verification**
Initially, Twitter planned to remove "legacy" verification badges for non-paying accounts. This was initially set for April 1, 2023, but was later adjusted to April 20, 2023, before being implemented in late April[3].
5. **Business Verification**
As of June 2025, Twitter (now referred to as X) planned to offer verification for businesses at $1,000 per month, with an additional $50 per month for affiliated accounts[1].
These changes reflect Musk's efforts to monetize Twitter's verification system while enhancing user experience and reducing impersonation risks.
6. **Job Cuts and Office Recall**
Rumors of significant job cuts had been circulating before the takeover, with potential investors allegedly told that Musk planned to cut 75% of the workforce. Musk has since confirmed that around 50% of Twitter's workforce could be laid off to reduce costs from the $44 billion acquisition[2]. The remaining employees will be recalled to the office, ending the company's work-from-anywhere policy.
Musk's plans for paid verification have sparked debate and criticism among Twitter users. Some argue that the authenticity of accounts may be compromised with the introduction of paid verification, while others see it as a necessary step to monetize the platform and ensure the sustainability of Twitter.
[1] https://www.cnbc.com/2022/11/04/elon-musk-twitter-blue-price-increase-to-8-per-month-for-verified-accounts.html [2] https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/elon-musks-twitter-to-cut-half-its-workforce-report-2023-06-08/ [3] https://www.cnbc.com/2022/12/12/twitter-relaxes-verification-rules-on-december-12-after-outcry-over-impersonation.html [4] https://www.theverge.com/2022/12/12/23561707/twitter-verified-accounts-paid-subscription-features-details
- After the introduction of paid verification on Twitter, businesses could pay $1,000 per month for verification, along with an additional $50 per month for affiliated accounts, signifying a shift in monetization strategy within the industry.
- The new business verification fee in Twitter was announced to be $1,000 per month, raising concerns among business owners about the affordability of maintaining their verified status in the realm of finance and general-news.
- The implementation of paid verification has led to changes in Twitter's user experience, offering benefits such as priority in mentions, replies, and searches, fewer ads, and exclusive features like tweet editing and NFT profile pictures, potentially impacting the political landscape through increased visibility on the platform.
