Twitter, once a hub of free and open conversation, has rapidly transformed into what many are calling a pay-to-participate platform under Elon Musk’s ownership. Once revered for its accessibility and influence, the platform now feels like a walled garden—locked behind endless subscriptions, restricted features, and aggressive monetization tactics.
Since Musk’s acquisition, Twitter (now X) has introduced a slew of changes that have alienated its user base. Verified checkmarks, once a sign of authenticity, are now sold to anyone willing to pay the monthly fee. Basic functionalities like viewing posts, engaging with content, and even accessing analytics are often locked behind a paywall.
Worse yet, what was once free is now commercialized. Musk has added monetization features to lure creators and sell the illusion of “earning potential,” but the reality is that most users are either forced into silence or nudged into spending just to stay relevant. The social media platform that helped shape modern digital culture is now charging users for the privilege of participating.
Critics argue that these changes are part of a broader pattern of self-serving business tactics. Musk, who often touts his “visionary” status, is increasingly seen as prioritizing profit over platform integrity. While supporters hail him as a disruptor, others see him as a monopolist capitalizing on what was once a free and public digital commons.
The sense of community that defined Twitter is fading. More users are abandoning the platform, citing the degradation of user experience, the loss of free speech (ironically), and the overwhelming presence of bots and monetization prompts. For many, Twitter has become, in their own words, “completely worthless.”
If this trend continues, it’s fair to ask: is there any future left for Twitter, or has Musk driven the platform past the point of no return?
