Tuesday, December 05
02:20 AM

Twitter’s transformation ruffles feathers of users in Oman

7 Aug 2023 Twitter's transformation ruffles feathers of users in Oman By ANIRBAN RAY

Muscat – In a surprising move that has created a stir among its users, Twitter has replaced its iconic blue bird logo with an enigmatic symbol, referred to simply as ‘X’. This change has sparked confusion and strong reactions from regular Twitter users, who associate the blue bird with freedom of expression.

Salem Rashid, who has used Twitter for over a decade, is disappointed. “For years, the blue bird served as a symbol of communication and free expression for millions around the world. The sudden transformation has left many feeling disconnected from the platform, triggering nostalgic sentiments for the bird that once chirped its way into our hearts.”

He described the new logo as “eerie”.

“It is as if someone is constantly monitoring us and subtly dictating us not to express free thoughts on Twitter. I wonder if there are hidden motives behind the rebranding.”

However, IT professional Tariq al Barwani has a more balanced view. “We must trust Elon Musk for his vision as he has a significant role in the present day world. We will adjust to ‘X’, though the sudden change came to me as a shock. It will take time for me to adjust. I feel that our opinions will not be controlled by anyone.”

Amid the uproar, questions arose whether the term ‘tweet’ would still apply. With the bird now gone, there were several suggestions and curious speculations of what daily updates may be referred to, leading to more bewilderment among users.

Vinod Raghavan, a devoted Twitter user, speculated tweets would be called ‘Xs’. “It will be funny and weird initially. I will miss the blue bird. I was confused when ‘X’ came up a few days back. I even deleted it for some time and then had to reinstall it.”

Tweets are now posts. The company swapped its blue ‘tweet’ button for one that says ‘post’. Users have proposed other names for posts, including ‘xeets’ (pronounced zeets), an X-themed play on tweets, and ‘xcerpts’.

Raghavan added that Twitter is a significant social media platform, considering governments, too, use it. “It would not be wise to move away from ‘X’. This is a temporary phase, and people will soon get used to it and sadly forget the bird.”

As users continue to adjust to the unfamiliar logo, the debate rages on whether it represents a bold new direction or an unwelcome change. The switch from the friendly blue bird to the ambiguous ‘X’ symbolises a pivotal moment in the ever-evolving landscape of social media.

© 2021 Apex Press and Publishing. All Rights Reserved. Powered by Mesdac