Musk Says Block Button “Makes No Sense,” But 65.55% Disagree

Elon Musk’s recent announcement regarding Twitter (X) removing the blocking feature has sent shockwaves through the platform’s user base. While Musk claims the feature “makes no sense,” a Real Research survey conducted reveals a different story.

Key Findings

• Over two-thirds (64.65%) were aware of the proposed removal of the Twitter (X) blocking feature.
• 43.57% agree with replacing blocking with muting (only hiding content).
• The survey found strong public disapproval (65.55%) of Musk’s decision to remove the blocking feature.

Twitter, Now X, To Remove Blocking Feature

According to Musk, “Block is going to be deleted as a feature except for DMs [direct messages].” Interestingly, 35.35% were entirely unaware of the proposed Twitter (X) removing the blocking feature. Over two-thirds (64.65%) were either well aware (31.64%) or vaguely aware (33.01%).

However, user sentiment leans heavily toward the importance of blocking. Nearly 90% (strongly agree: 38.39% + agree: 51.38%) believe that blocking is a useful tool to restrict unwanted contact, harassment, and stalking.

Potential App Store Removal

The potential consequences of Twitter (X) removing the blocking feature extend beyond user experience. Removing or limiting the block feature might bring X into conflict with Apple’s App Store and Google Play guidelines, which mandate the ability to block users in user-generated content apps.

The majority (86.42%) believe it’s very or somewhat likely that X could be delisted from app stores due to violating user safety guidelines.

The survey also tapped into existing anxieties around content moderation on X. With reports of increased hate speech and antisemitic content on X, only 38.13% expressed confidence that the company is doing enough.

Challenges of Muting vs. Blocking

Adding fuel to the fire, Jack Dorsey, the former CEO of Twitter, endorsed Musk’s decision regarding Twitter (X) removing the blocking feature, advocating for a “mute only” approach. While 43.57% agreed with this sentiment, 36.62% remained unsure, and 19.81% outright disagreed.

The survey then explored the viability of muting as a replacement for blocking. While some users (13.3%) felt it wouldn’t be difficult to remove abusive content through muting, a much larger group (86.7%) believed it would be somewhat or very hard.

The Public Decides

Lastly, the survey revealed overwhelming public disapproval of Musk’s decision regarding Twitter (X) removing the blocking feature. A combined 65.55% of respondents (strongly agree: 24.48% + agree: 41.07%) expressed negative sentiment towards the removal of the block feature.