X (formerly Twitter) modifies its blocking system ❌

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X, previously known as Twitter, has revamped its « block » feature, a long-standing promise from Elon Musk that is prompting users to migrate to platforms like Blue Sky. Even though Musk has officially stepped down from management, he remains the owner and continues to shape the platform’s policies.

A completely redefined blocking policy📢

Staying true to his vision, Elon Musk is implementing a radical change to the « block » function on X. This change now allows blocked users to view the public posts of those who have blocked them. This update limits the effectiveness of the tool. This choice, presented as a gesture of « transparency » by X’s management, aims to reduce access restrictions. However, it has sparked controversy, as Musk himself is one of the most blocked accounts on the platform.

Blocked accounts will continue to see public content but will not be able to interact—no liking, commenting, or reposting. Officially motivated by transparency, this decision could also be aimed at reducing the impact of the blocking function on influential users.

• Blocking Without Interaction: Blocked accounts will continue to see public content but will not be able to interact—no liking, commenting, or reposting.
• Transparency in Question: Officially motivated by transparency, this decision could also aim to reduce the impact of the blocking function on influential users.

A restricted blocking function 🚫

In practice, this update limits the ability to restrict access to posts, undermining the effectiveness of the block feature for users trying to avoid harassment. Indeed, if posts are defined as « public, » blocked accounts can see them, even though all interaction is prohibited. By restricting the blocking function, X potentially exposes vulnerable users to abusive behavior.

This transformation of the « block » function raises concerns as it could violate security requirements imposed by Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store. These app stores demand that applications provide robust tools to protect users from unwanted interactions.

• Impact on Vulnerable Users: By restricting the blocking function, X potentially exposes vulnerable users to abusive behavior.
• Risks for Compliance: Apple and Google impose security standards on applications that this change could undermine.

Bluesky sees a surge in new users🌐

In light of this controversial policy, Bluesky, a social network positioned as an alternative to X, is experiencing a surge in registrations. Within 12 hours of X’s announcement, more than 100,000 new users flocked to Bluesky. By the end of August, 1 million users had joined Bluesky from Brazil, after the country had blocked access to X. This platform, offering algorithm customization tools and advanced blocking settings, caters to a growing demand for user control and security. For several months, Bluesky has been experiencing sustained growth, particularly after X was blocked in Brazil, which led to an influx of nearly one million users seeking a reliable alternative.

• An Appeal for Customization: The ability to configure blocking and visibility in detail attracts an increasing number of users.
• A Strengthened Positioning: Bluesky is gradually establishing itself as a preferred option for those at odds with Musk’s policies on X.

X facing competition and security imperatives 💡

This change to X’s blocking function exposes the platform to increased criticism, especially as it could influence its compliance with app store standards. By banking on questionable transparency, X risks seeing its audience migrate en masse to alternatives perceived as better in terms of security and interaction control. Musk’s policy could thus not only strengthen competition but also weaken X’s position in the social media market.

Your Opinions Matter !!!
Do you think X will be able to maintain its position, or will it lose users to the evolution of Bluesky? ❓