The official @Twitter account tweeted: “we’re launching @TwitterBlue on Monday – subscribe on web for $8/month or on iOS for $11/month to get access to subscriber only features, including the blue checkmark [thread emoji].”
The tweet included an image that shows the features of Twitter Blue. Most of the features are labeled as “coming soon”, including: Rocket to the top of replies, mentions and search; See half the ads; and Post longer videos. The Get Early Access to new features appear to be unlocked.
According to Reuters, the company said users could subscribe to the revamped service that will allow subscribers to edit tweets, upload 1080p videos and get a blue checkmark post account verification, for $8 per month through the web but $11 per month through Apple iOS.
Reuters also reported that Twitter did not explain why Apple users were being charged more than others on the web, but there have been media reports that the company was looking for ways to offset fees charged in the App Store.
The Verge reported that Twitter’s relaunching its Blue subscription on Monday, one month after abandoning a chaotic first attempt that spurred hoax accounts and general mayhem.
The Verge also reported that the subscription will cost $8 per month to purchase on the web or $11 per month via the iOS App Store to make up for the 30 percent commission Apple takes off of in-app purchases. This time, anyone paying for Blue who wants to display a “verified” checkmark on their profile will need to register a phone number first, and changing your “handle, display name or profile photo” will remove the label until your account is reviewed again.
Rolling Stone reported that Twitter is trying to make paid bluecheck verification happen again following its disastrous initial launch shortly after Elon Musk took over the reins at the company on Oct. 27. The program, which immediately verified anyone who paid $8 for the program, was paused within days following the proliferation of misinformation and parody accounts, which were suspended when found. The new iteration of the program is set to arrive Monday.
According to Rolling Stone, it is unclear if the new approach can stem the mass exodus from the platform and shore up its revenue. A growing list of celebrities have exited Twitter since Musk’s takeover. Coupled with his decision to allow previously suspended accounts back on the platform. Rolling Stone also noted that Twitter is also losing advertisers.
Personally, I’m not interested in paying $11 for a blue checkmark and some fancy features. I don’t use Twitter as much as I used to, so there’s little incentive for me spend money on Twitter Blue. It seems unfair that Elon Musk wants iOS users to pay more for the same services that Android users get for $8 – simply because he wants to avoid paying for the “Apple tax”.