Musk wants to create open-source algorithms that govern how the platform works. Open source means any interested party can take a look ‘under the hood’ at how it all works. Attempts at manipulation or influence can be identified and concerns raised. Some of Twitter’s current algorithms are already open source, but not all.
One benefit will be that the platform will become a safer place for vulnerable users, including women, LGBTIQ individuals, people of colour and ethnic minorities.
An updated Twitter is also likely to feature an ‘edit button’, considered by many as long overdue. A poll of Twitter users found 74% of voters wanted an edit button allowing users to amend a post after posting.
Twitter bots have been a contentious issue. In fact, it was the former management’s contention that only 5% of accounts were bots (not real people) that stalled the acquisition process. Musk maintained the figure was considerably higher and that the Twitter board misled him on this point. Musk will seek to eliminate all bots, not just the “bad” ones that is currently the policy.
And finally, there is likely to be a two-tier membership. The free subscription will continue, but with a paid premium level that gives the subscriber as yet undisclosed additional benefits.
Interesting times ahead for a re-vamped Twitter and a Swiss army knife everything app to rival the highly successful Chinese WeChat and take on the likes of Meta and Alphabet.