The recent claims made by Elon Musk and his supporters regarding X’s success compared to other social media platforms have raised concerns about the accuracy of the data being presented. While it is true that X has seen an increase in web traffic, it is important to note that this data only represents a fraction of X’s total user base. With approximately 88.55% of X users accessing the app via mobile devices, measuring web traffic alone does not provide an accurate representation of X’s overall usage compared to platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
One of the key points of contention revolves around X being categorized as a “News” app in the Apple App Store. This categorization was a strategic move by Twitter management back in 2016 to shift the growth narrative of the platform. While X does feature news content and publishers, it is primarily a social media platform. This categorization has led to X consistently being listed as the number one “News” app for eight years, despite not fitting the traditional definition of a news app.
Claims of X’s success based on daily active users (DAUs) also come under scrutiny, as X has not added any new DAUs since November 2022. While there has been an increase in monthly active users, the growth rate does not indicate significant rising interest. Reports have also shown a decrease in revenue, raising further questions about X’s overall performance in the social media space.
Elon Musk’s emphasis on highlighting selective data points, such as web traffic and app store rankings, presents a skewed view of X’s success. By focusing on metrics like “daily user seconds” to measure engagement, Musk attempts to create a positive narrative around X’s performance. However, the reality of stagnant user growth and declining revenue paints a different picture of X’s current status in the social media landscape.
It is essential to critically analyze the data and claims presented by Elon Musk and X’s supporters regarding the platform’s success. By digging deeper into the metrics and understanding the limitations of the data being highlighted, a more accurate assessment of X’s performance can be made. The truth about X’s success lies in a comprehensive evaluation of all available information, rather than relying on selective data points to shape a misleading narrative.
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