The block function on X allows a user to restrict specific
accounts from contacting them, seeing their posts or following them.
"Block is going to be deleted as a 'feature', except
for DMs," Musk said in a post on the platform, referring to direct
messages.
He said X would retain the mute function, which screens a
user from seeing specified accounts but, unlike blocking, does not alert the
other account to the action.
The billionaire owner has described himself as a free speech
absolutist, but some critics have said his approach is irresponsible.
Researchers have found an increase in hate speech and antisemitic content on
the platform since he took over, and some governments have accused the company
of not doing enough to moderate its content.
Removing or limiting the block feature might bring X into
conflict with guidelines incorporated by Apple's App Store and Alphabet's
Google Play.
Apple says apps with user-generated content must have the
ability to block abusive users. Google Play Store says apps must provide an
in-app system for blocking user-generated content and users.
X, Google and Apple did not immediately reply to requests for
comment.
It makes no sense
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 18, 2023
Responding to a post from anti-bullying activist Monica
Lewinsky urging X to keep the "critical tool to keep people safe
online", Chief Executive Linda Yaccarino defended Musk's move.
"Our users' safety on X is our number one priority. And
we're building something better than the current state of block and mute.
Please keep the feedback coming," Yaccarino posted.
The company has said Musk would lead the product and
engineering teams, while Yaccarino would lead all other teams, including legal
and sales. © Reuters