In a rather perplexing turn of events (for numerous well-known reasons), Twitter’s usefulness appears to be diminishing with each passing day. In its most recent misstep, the platform seems to have implemented a change that prevents non-logged-in individuals from viewing any tweets.
Previously, users who weren’t signed in could still browse through tweets and user profiles. However, at least for the time being, they will now need to create an account or enter their login credentials in order to access the assortment of unattributed memes that Twitter owner Elon Musk may have shared today. The issue was initially noticed by The Verge and has since been confirmed by BuyTechBlog on various browsers and devices.
Twitter has not provided any official statement regarding whether this change was a technical error or an intentional decision. It’s worth noting that one of Musk’s early actions after assuming control of the company was essentially dismantling its communications team. Moreover, logged-out users have been unable to utilize Twitter’s search function since April.
The repercussions of such actions, along with Twitter’s alterations to its API, remain uncertain in terms of their impact on aspects like Google’s ability to incorporate tweets into search results. Additionally, this change could pose challenges for services that rely on scraping data from publicly accessible platforms such as Twitter.
By making tweets visible exclusively to signed-in users, Twitter may not necessarily prompt individuals to create an account. If someone wishes to share a tweet with a non-Twitter user, they might be more inclined to send a screenshot rather than a link, potentially reducing the likelihood of the non-user joining the platform.
Researchers have discovered that since Musk’s acquisition of the service, most adults in the United States are spending less time on Twitter. Given the reported decline in advertising revenue, one would assume that Twitter would be striving to attract more attention to its tweets and ads. Erecting barriers between potential new users and content might not be the wisest approach in achieving that objective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Twitter, accessibility, user engagement, Elon Musk
Q: Why is Twitter hiding tweets from non-logged-in users?
A: Twitter has implemented a change that hides tweets from users who are not logged in. The exact reason behind this decision is unclear, and Twitter has not provided an official statement. However, it is speculated that this change may be a result of Elon Musk’s influence since he took over the company and made significant changes, including the dissolution of the communication team.
More about Twitter, accessibility, user engagement, Elon Musk
- The Verge: Twitter no longer lets you see tweets without an account
- BuyTechBlog: Confirmation of tweet visibility issue for logged-out users
- Twitter API changes and their impact
- Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter
- Impact of Twitter’s changes on advertising revenue
- Study on decreased Twitter usage after Musk’s takeover
2 comments
As an advertiser, I’m concerned about Twitter’s declining ad revenue. Hiding tweets from non-logged-in users could further decrease engagement and reach. They should be finding ways to attract more eyes, not build barriers. #MarketingMatters
lol twitter bein’ all weird again! Now u gotta log in to see tweets? What’s Elon Musk doin’ to the platform? #Confused