After a successful test run with NPR and PBS with their Government-funded Media label, tech billionaire Elon Musk announced today that he will be launching a new subscription service for Twitter called “Twitter Red”. This new platform promises to offer exclusive features and benefits to its users, including a special red checkmark for those who believe they are state-funded entities.
According to Musk, the red checkmark will be available to anyone who can prove that they are a government-funded organization, such as a think tank or research institution. This move is aimed at creating a more transparent and accountable social media space, where users can easily distinguish between legitimate news sources and fake news.
Musk announced that the subscription cost for Twitter Red will be $19.99 per month if paid on the web, and $24.99 if paid through an App Store. However, for those who pay yearly, there will be a discount of $199 for the web and $249 for the App Store.
In a statement, Musk explained the reasoning behind the pricing: “We believe that Twitter Red is an invaluable tool for those who need to stay informed about the latest news and developments. By offering a red checkmark to state-funded entities, we hope to promote a more honest and transparent online environment. And of course, we need to cover our costs to maintain the quality of our service.”
Not surprisingly, Twitter users were quick to react to the news. Some praised Musk for his innovative approach to tackling the problem of fake news, while others criticized the move as a blatant attempt to monetize the platform even further.
As for whether Twitter Red will be successful or not, only time will tell. But one thing is for sure – Elon Musk is not one to shy away from bold and unconventional ideas. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll all be sporting those coveted red checkmarks on our profiles.
