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The
block function on X allows a user to restrict specific accounts
from contacting them, seeing their posts or following them.
"Block is going to be deleted as a 'feature', except for DMs,"
Musk said in a post on the platform, referring to direct
messages.
He said X would retain the mute function, which screens a user
from seeing specified accounts but, unlike blocking, does not
alert the other account to the action.
The billionaire owner has described himself as a free speech
absolutist, but some critics have said his approach is
irresponsible. Researchers have found an increase in hate speech
and antisemitic content on the platform since he took over, and
some governments have accused the company of not doing enough to
moderate its content.
Removing or limiting the block feature might bring X into
conflict with guidelines incorporated by Apple's App Store and
Alphabet's Google Play.
Apple says apps with user-generated content must have the
ability to block abusive users. Google Play Store says apps must
provide an in-app system for blocking user-generated content and
users.
X, Google and Apple did not immediately reply to requests for
comment.
Responding to a post from anti-bullying activist Monica Lewinsky
urging X to keep the "critical tool to keep people safe online",
Chief Executive Linda Yaccarino defended Musk's move.
"Our users' safety on X is our number one priority. And we're
building something better than the current state of block and
mute. Please keep the feedback coming," Yaccarino posted.
The company has said Musk would lead the product and engineering
teams, while Yaccarino would lead all other teams, including
legal and sales.
(Reporting by Mrinmay Dey in Bengaluru; Editing by William
Mallard)
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