It has emerged that Twitter has launched a monthly subscription service fee of $7.99 (Ksh758) for users to buy or retain the blue-tick verification in what the new leadership describes as efforts to cut costs.
The blue-tick verification system helps in identifying authentic and influential users on the platform such as journalists, government officials, athletes, brands and organisations.
Users who “sign up now” to its premium “Twitter Blue” service, according to an update on Apple iOS devices, will now have access to the blue tick public figure status notwithstanding. “The service will give power to the people: your account will get a blue checkmark, just like the celebrities, companies, and politicians you already follow,” the update, which is available in the UK, as well as the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, read.
Other changes that are expected to be introduced include half the number of adverts, the ability to post longer videos and priority ranking for content posted on the platform.
“The firm began widespread staff cuts around the world on Friday, with suggestions that as many as half of its more than 7,500 staff could be axed,” the Guardian reports.
Jack Dorsey, Twitter co-founder, said on Saturday that he was sorry for the speed with which the company has grown. “I own the responsibility for why everyone is in this situation: I grew the company size too quickly. I apologize for that,” he said.
