X Verifies Users With Large Followings Without the Premium Subscription Fee

Before the rise of TikTok, X (formerly Twitter) was the favourite digital hangout spot for Millennials and Gen Zs – mostly used to express thoughts or stay updated about the latest trends. Now being dominated by fandoms, the social media platform is gaining popularity once again.

Before being acquired by Elon Musk, blue checkmarks were used to verify legitimate and popular businesses, artists, and personalities. Thinking it was unfair, Musk overhauled the system and gave the blue checks to paying subscribers.

Things took a turn on April 3 when some people woke up with a verified account. According to a notification received, they are given a complimentary subscription to X premium for being an influential member of the X community.

What’s the basis? “All 𝕏 accounts with over 2500 verified subscriber followers will get Premium features for free and accounts with over 5000 will get Premium+ for free,” per Musk’s post on the platform last March 28 – which means having a large following does not guarantee a free check mark; you must have a certain number of paying subscribers on your followers list.