If there’s one thing Generation Z can’t live without, it’s probably social media. Twitter is one of the top six social media platforms most frequently used by the generation. Well – at least it was once known as Twitter. After a 17-year run with the name Twitter, today’s users now see a black application called “X”. This comes after the company was bought out by business magnate, Elon Musk, for a whopping $44 billion back in October 2022.
For the average Twitter user, the unexpected change resulted in great confusion and shock. Many couldn’t help but wonder what was next to come for the platform and if it would continue to maintain its distinctive features. Fortunately for X, it appears that many longtime users have vowed to remain loyal throughout these changes. “I used the OG Twitter like every day, so ‘X’ and I will get along just fine,” said senior Coco Jones. “I just need to know why they chose that name.”
While the name change appears to be the most significant difference, there are other features of the application that may face modification. According to Musk, the next change will involve the removal of the notorious “block button”, which would prohibit a user from being able to block others from their account. As an alternative, he suggests that creators make use of restrictive features, such as muting. This unanticipated change has sparked controversy. “I’ve never blocked anyone on Twitter,” said junior Kendall Lawson. “But I can definitely see how having the option could be a necessity.”
As the Twitter franchise prospered in the 2000s, it built a name and brand of its own. A good deal of users who enjoyed Twitter around these times feel that the rebrand to X goes against everything that they once knew. “I used to use Twitter daily, but now I only open it when someone sends me a link,” said NAHS physics teacher William Hinkle. “The most valuable aspect of Twitter was its name.”
It’s taking time for users to grow accustomed to things that they aren’t used to, especially when it means having to say goodbye to something that they have known for so long. Considering this, it’s likely that as time progresses, Twitter fanatics will grow to appreciate X and its unique approach to social media.
