It is no secret that Elon Musk and his followers are often quick to tout X’s success, especially when it comes to user metrics. However, a closer look at the data reveals some questionable claims regarding X’s usage. While Musk has been known to amplify reports suggesting that X is outperforming Meta’s apps in terms of usage, the reality is far more nuanced. The assertion that X is the number one news app is not as straightforward as it seems.
One of the key issues with the data Musk has been sharing is that it only measures web traffic, not app usage. This distinction is crucial, as the majority of X users access the platform via mobile devices. In fact, only a small fraction of X’s reported 250 million daily active users actually log in through the website. When compared to platforms like Facebook and Instagram, X falls short in terms of overall usage. The skewed presentation of these usage metrics raises questions about the transparency of X’s reporting practices.
X’s Misclassification as a “News” App
Another misleading aspect of X’s purported success is its listing as a “News” app in the App Store. This categorization was a strategic move by Twitter management to shift the narrative around X’s growth trajectory. While X does feature news content and publishers, it is fundamentally a social media platform. The continued listing of X as the top “News” app is more a reflection of its classification than its actual purpose. This misrepresentation further adds to the skepticism surrounding X’s reported success.
Despite claims of increased interest, X has not added any daily active users since November 2022. While there has been a slight uptick in monthly active users, the overall growth is lackluster. Reports of tackling bots and purging millions of profiles may have inflated these numbers, creating a misleading picture of X’s success. Additionally, a decline in revenue and reduced user engagement signal underlying issues within the platform. Musk’s emphasis on “daily user seconds” as a measure of engagement is a questionable metric that fails to capture the full extent of user activity.
The narrative surrounding X’s success is far from accurate. The selective use of data and the misclassification of X as a “News” app paint a rosy picture that belies the platform’s actual performance. Musk’s eagerness to promote X’s achievements may stem from a desire to uphold free speech, but the reality is that X is facing challenges in user growth, revenue, and engagement. It is important to critically evaluate these claims and recognize the limitations of the data being presented. Ultimately, a more balanced perspective is needed to truly understand X’s current status in the social media landscape.
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