X, formerly known as Twitter, has announced a significant change that will impact its users: livestreaming will soon be restricted to Premium subscribers only. This move marks a departure from other major social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube, where livestreaming remains free for all users.
The decision was communicated via X’s official @Live profile, stating that starting soon, only Premium subscribers will have the ability to create live video streams, including those using X-integrated encoder platforms. Currently, X Premium subscriptions cost $8 per month or $84 annually, offering additional benefits such as a verified blue checkmark and ad-free browsing.
CEO Elon Musk previously hinted at monetizing basic features on X, citing the need to combat spam and bots with a nominal fee for new account posting privileges. This strategy underscores a potential shift towards a hybrid revenue model combining advertising with paid subscriptions.
Critics argue that moving a widely accessible feature behind a paywall may alienate users accustomed to free livestreaming options on other platforms. As X continues to navigate these changes, its user base awaits further updates on when the new policy will take effect and how it will impact their social media experience.