However, he himself has come under criticism because he continues to address controversial topics. This is what he recently posted “Only the AfD can save Germany,” which provoked strong reactions. Critics accuse him of fueling right-wing extremist and populist movements. Internationally, too, his influence on political debates is increasingly viewed critically. Musk has about his Support for Donald Trump intensifiedactively campaigned for him during the election campaign and increasingly influenced US politics. He is supposed to become part of the new US government and head an agency that is supposed to streamline bureaucracy; However, critics fear an erosion of democracy.
Musk, the reach and the contradiction
Elon Musk’s dominant presence on X is not only attracting attention, but also growing resentment. As the most followed user on the platform, his posts have a significant influence on the general mood – especially since he actively addresses polarizing topics. What is particularly explosive against this background is that Musk has actively influenced how widely his own contributions are disseminated on X. We have already reported that he instructed his employees to adjust the algorithm so that his posts had a significantly higher reach – especially compared to posts from other prominent personalities such as the still incumbent US President Joe Biden. This came after Musk complained about the low visibility of his own content. At the same time, Musk has the Comment function on his posts is so limitedthat only paying users can respond to it.
This combination of algorithmic favoritism and limited opportunity for discussion reinforces criticism that X is less an open debate platform and more a mouthpiece for Musk’s own views.
Meta role model? Entertainment instead of politics
Musk’s strategy is reminiscent of Meta’s change of course: As early as 2021, the company responded to complaints about the dominance of political content and reduced its reach on Facebook and Instagram in favor of entertaining short videos. Reels in particular, inspired by TikTok’s algorithm-driven feed, helped significantly increase user engagement time. X could now adopt this strategy to generate more engagement – especially with video content.
A possible sticking point: Platforms like TikTok and Meta are increasingly relying on algorithmically curated feeds with content from accounts that users do not actively follow. X, on the other hand, leaves the Following view active by default, which offers more control but potentially reduces dwell time. It therefore stands to reason that X will focus more on the For You view in the future – especially with a view to the planned video strategy.
Everything App or left behind?
X plans video monetization and increases API prices
Will Musk’s own content be affected – or just everyone else’s?
Will the algorithm update really apply to everyone – or will the platform owner himself be left out? Can X actually promote a more open and positive culture of discussion if Musk makes the rules himself? Critics have doubts about this. In the past, it has already become clear several times that changes on the platform often turn out to be to one’s own advantage – be it through targeted preference of one’s content or through restrictions for non-paying users. Instead of promoting diversity and independent opinions, the update could ultimately serve to shape X more in Musk’s spirit. The crucial question remains whether this is really about a better user experience or more about solidifying your own agenda.
The update is not yet active, but should be released soon X Engineering Account be published in detail.
Source: onlinemarketing.de
