The recent news that X is working on “de-coupling” direct messages (DMs) from other in-app experiences is a step towards Elon Musk’s vision of an “everything app.” This change will allow users to use X primarily as a messaging platform without having to engage in other activities within the app. While this could be seen as a convenient feature for some users, the question arises whether there is a real need for this functionality.
One of the new options being uncovered by app researcher Nima Owji is a separate block button for DMs on X. This means that users will be able to block someone from messaging them without blocking them from their account altogether. While this feature may seem useful in certain situations, it raises concerns about the overall user experience on the platform.
One of the main issues with the upcoming changes to X is the lack of incentive for users to switch their daily activities to the platform. While Elon Musk’s vision of an “everything app” is ambitious, it fails to provide significant advantages over other existing apps and tools. For example, the ability to conduct virtual meet-ups on X instead of Zoom may not appeal to users who are accustomed to the features and functionality of established platforms.
The challenge for X lies in convincing users to shift their habitual behaviors to the platform without offering compelling reasons to do so. While the idea of consolidating daily functions into one app is appealing in theory, the reality is that users may not see the value in switching to X if the offerings are not superior to what they already use. Without a clear incentive for users to make the switch, X may struggle to gain widespread adoption for its new features and functionalities.
The upcoming changes to the X platform may offer some interesting options for users, such as the ability to use it primarily as a messaging app. However, the lack of significant benefits compared to existing alternatives raises questions about the potential success of these changes. Without a clear value proposition for users, X may have difficulty convincing people to switch their daily activities to the platform. Ultimately, the success of the new features and functionalities will depend on whether they can effectively address the needs and preferences of users in a competitive market.
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