What is X verification?
X verification is a system that confirms an account’s authenticity. It’s meant to help you identify genuine accounts of public figures, brands, and organizations. When you see a blue checkmark next to a username, it means X has verified that account.
The verification process helps stop impersonation. It also builds trust on the platform. You can feel more confident interacting with verified accounts.
X’s verification policy has changed over time. Originally, X (Twitter) chose who to verify. Now, users can get verified by subscribing to X Premium. This shift has made verification more accessible, but also more controversial.
How has X verification evolved?
X’s verification system has changed a lot. In the past, you had to apply for a blue checkmark. Now, it’s part of a paid service called X Blue.
The big shift happened in 2022 after Elon Musk bought Twitter and renamed it to X. You can now get verified by paying for a subscription. This replaced the old system where the company decided who to verify.
In April 2023, X removed the old “legacy” checkmarks. This meant many previously verified accounts lost their status unless they signed up for X Blue.
These changes have made verification more accessible, but also more controversial. You no longer need to be famous or noteworthy to get verified – just willing to pay.
What are the different types of X checkmarks?
X now has three types of checkmarks:
- Blue checkmark: You can get this by subscribing to X Blue. It shows you’re a paid user.
- Gold checkmark: This is for verified organizations like companies and news outlets. It proves they’re official accounts.
- Grey checkmark: Government officials and institutions use this one. It helps you spot real government accounts.
Each checkmark helps you know who you’re talking to on X. They make it easier to find trustworthy info from real accounts.
How to get verified on X
Getting verified on X is now simpler. You can get a blue checkmark by subscribing to X Blue. Here’s what you need to do:
First, make sure your account meets these requirements:
- At least 30 days old
- Verified phone number
- Recent profile picture
- Display name
- Active in the last 30 days
Then subscribe to Twitter Blue through the settings menu on your app or desktop. Choose between Premium or Premium Plus plans.
After subscribing, you’ll get a blue checkmark next to your name. For businesses and organizations, gold and grey checkmarks have different criteria.
What are the benefits and downsides of X verification?
Getting verified on X can boost your credibility. You’ll stand out with a blue checkmark, showing you’re authentic. Verified accounts often get more visibility and followers.
You’ll also get access to premium features. These include editing tweets and posting longer content. This can help you engage better with your audience.
But verification isn’t perfect. Now that anyone can buy it, it’s less exclusive. This can make it harder to tell which accounts are truly noteworthy. Some users might not trust verification as much as before.
What’s the future of X verification?
X’s verification system may keep changing. The platform might focus more on paid subscriptions for verification. This could help fight spam but also raise concerns about access.
You might see new verification categories added and X may also explore new ways to show account authenticity. This could involve different badge types or profile features.