X users formerly known as X twitter they will no longer be able to block other accounts. A feature many relied on as an extra layer of security and control, this change was shared by Elon Musk on his social platform this Friday. The decision marks another step in a wide series of adjustments implemented since Musk completed the purchase of the platform, a move that has reshaped how the service is run day to day. The public discourse around these shifts has touched on logo changes, the potential rebranding of the network, and the rollback or modification of certain verification perks for prominent figures and entities that use the service. In practical terms, the move signals a shift in how users can manage their interactions and curate their feeds amid an evolving landscape of privacy and safety tools on the platform.
Musk, who became the owner last year and also leads major technology enterprises, indicated that while the full blocking feature will be restricted, users will still retain several important controls. Specifically, individuals will be able to block certain capabilities from other accounts, such as preventing direct messages or limiting interactions in certain contexts. The mute function, a tool originally designed to reduce exposure to unwanted remarks, will continue to exist and operate as a personal filter. This combination means a user can shield themselves from specific accounts in ways that reduce direct confrontation while still allowing the rest of the community to engage with those accounts. The ongoing evolution of these options reflects a broader strategy to balance free expression with user safety and a smoother experience on a high-traffic social network that serves millions across Canada and the United States, including public figures, brands, and everyday users.
Musk did not provide a detailed rationale for the change or a precise timeline for its implementation. The block feature, when active, typically prevented the blocked account from seeing the user’s posts, commenting on them, or tagging the account in content. In contrast, the mute tool limits only the experience of the person who takes the action; others on the platform can still see and interact with the muted account. This shift could alter how communities moderate conversations and how information spreads within the network, raising questions about moderation standards, user autonomy, and the practical implications for online discourse. As with many platform-level adjustments launched from the top executive suite, users and observers are weighing potential effects on trust, engagement, and the overall dynamics of conversations across timelines and replies, particularly in high-visibility spaces where public figures and institutions maintain a robust presence.