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X Reports New Usage Insights to Mark the First Year of Elon Musk’s Takeover at the App

Published

10 months ago

October 27, 2023

New Analysis Reveals How X is Evolving its Feed Algorithm, and What it’s Looking to Emphasize

Honestly, it’s hard to know what exactly the status of Elon’s Musk’s “X” project currently is, due to conflicting reports about its performance.

Today marks a year since Musk took ownership of Twitter, which he’s since re-branded to X, as part of his long-held vision to create a payments-centered “everything app”, modeled on Chinese messaging platforms like WeChat, which have become essential connection tools for billions of users.

Musk believes that X can become the same, but again, right now, it’s not entirely clear how X is developing towards that division.

Based on insights shared by X CEO Linda Yaccarino, everything’s going well, with her latest blog post claiming that:

X has over 500 million monthly active users
X users spend 7.8 billion active minutes on X per day
The average user spends more than 32 minutes per day in the app
Around 1.5 million new accounts are being created every day
All major ad agencies have reversed their pause guidance against advertising on X
90 of X’s top 100 ad spenders from a year ago have now resumed campaigns

But as noted, many of these stats are refuted by third-party analysis, or even a basic dig into X’s own reported numbers.

On active users, according to data from SimilarWeb (published this week by Axios), X’s monthly active user count has actually fallen by 14.8% globally, and by 17.8% in the U.S. year-over-year, for the month of September.

Last September, X had around 238 million daily active users, which likely means that X was serving around 439 million monthly actives, based on average DAU to MAU variation across social apps. That would mean that, based on SimilarWeb’s indicators, X would currently be seeing around 378 million monthly active users, not 500 million, as X claims.

Other third-party analysis tells a similar tale. Data from Apptopia suggests that X currently has around 223 million monthly actives, and 121 million daily users, with the app seeing a drastic decline in both usage and downloads since the rebrand to X in July.

But at the same time, neither SimilarWeb nor Apptopia can access to the full data insights, with only X having complete oversight. Though their figures are generally indicative, which seems to suggest that X probably doesn’t have 500 million monthly users at this stage.

But we don’t know, because X is now a private company, and as such, it’s not beholden to SEC rules around disclosure. So we only have X’s word, and X says it’s 500 million.

Make of that what you will.

In terms of average time spent in the app per day, X itself has reported that it currently has 253 million daily actives, which would mean that if users are spending a cumulative 7.8 billion minutes per day in the app, as reported by Yaccarino, then the average time spent is actually 30.8 minutes per user, not 32 minutes per day as Yaccarino claims.

If the average time spent per user is actually 32 minutes per day, as X says, then that would mean that X is now serving 244 million daily actives, which would mean that it’s lost 7 million DAU since March.

And if that’s true, then those 1.5 million new account sign-ups that the app’s seeing are not sticking around, because X should be adding 45 million new users every month at that rate.

But it’s losing daily actives? Doesn’t seem like a great indicator of success.

X also claims that all of its major ad partners are coming back, but Ebiquity, which works with 70 of the world’s top 100 spending brands, claims that only two of its clients have resumed X ad spend. X has also started selling ad inventory through Google Ads to fill slots, which would appear to suggest that if these brands are returning, they’re spending a lot less.

But again, we don’t know, because X is the only one with all the data, and the only means of knowing for sure how X is going will be its financial performance. Which will also remain unclear, till Musk and Co. decide to report those figures.

And that might only come when X is really struggling, though it does seem somewhat indicative of a problem when the banks that loaned Elon Musk $13 billion for his acquisition are now anticipating a significant loss, as they try to offload the debt.

Fidelity, which itself owns a stake in the company, has cut X’s valuation by two-thirds, which means the platform would currently be worth around $15 million, as opposed to the $44 billion Musk paid for it.

So while X’s team is trying to paint a rosy picture, every external analysis suggests otherwise. And maybe they’re all wrong, but it does seem like there’s something not quite on the nose about the data being shared.

On other elements, Yaccarino also says that each day, “150,000 new long form posts are published, receiving more than 3 billion impressions.”

Long-form content is a significant departure from what Twitter had been, which hasn’t really seemed like a great fit, but maybe there is an audience for it, based on these figures. Though again, the detail is absent, in regards to what actually defines a long-form post in this context (i.e. is that any post that you have to tap into to read, or is it only posts of a certain word count?).

Yaccarino also says that the average X Premium subscriber spends three times longer on the platform than a non-subscriber. Which is zero surprise at all, but that would also mean that this segment would be skewing the average time spent numbers, on aggregate.

In terms of coming features, Yaccarino has said that full-screen, vertical video ads will soon be displayed within X’s new immersive playback mode, which is when you tap through on a video and scroll up to keep seeing more. Yaccarino says that 100 million people now view video content within this dedicated feed every day, with Gen Z being the most active consumers of this process.

Finally, Yaccarino says that its in-stream payments process is in development, with X being granted money transmitter licenses in several U.S. states. As we’ve reported, X has been granted payments licenses in some states, but it still has a long way to go in gaining full approval on this front.

I don’t know, it feels almost too skeptical to question every one of X’s claims, but again, this is based on external analysis and reporting, at a broad scale, which contradicts Yaccarino’s various notes. Maybe they’re all wrong, maybe X is actually doing awesome, and maybe Threads, which is now up to 100 million users, is having no impact at all on X usage.

But that seems very unlikely, when every other mode of analysis and insight is reporting the same.

We’ll find out, as X continues on its path.

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12 Proven Methods to Make Money Blogging in 2024

Published

4 months ago

May 14, 2024

Entireweb News Bot

This is a contributed article.

The world of blogging continues to thrive in 2024, offering a compelling avenue for creative minds to share their knowledge, build an audience, and even turn their passion into profit. Whether you’re a seasoned blogger or just starting, there are numerous effective strategies to monetize your blog and achieve financial success. Here, we delve into 12 proven methods to make money blogging in 2024:

1. Embrace Niche Expertise:

Standing out in the vast blogosphere requires focus. Carving a niche allows you to cater to a specific audience with targeted content. This not only builds a loyal following but also positions you as an authority in your chosen field. Whether it’s gardening techniques, travel hacking tips, or the intricacies of cryptocurrency, delve deep into a subject you’re passionate and knowledgeable about. Targeted audiences are more receptive to monetization efforts, making them ideal for success.

2. Content is King (and Queen):

High-quality content remains the cornerstone of any successful blog. In 2024, readers crave informative, engaging, and well-written content that solves their problems, answers their questions, or entertains them. Invest time in crafting valuable blog posts, articles, or videos that resonate with your target audience.

Focus on evergreen content: Create content that remains relevant for a long time, attracting consistent traffic and boosting your earning potential.
Incorporate multimedia: Spice up your content with captivating images, infographics, or even videos to enhance reader engagement and improve SEO.
Maintain consistency: Develop a regular publishing schedule to build anticipation and keep your audience coming back for more.

3. The Power of SEO:

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ensures your blog ranks high in search engine results for relevant keywords. This increases organic traffic, the lifeblood of any monetization strategy.

Keyword research: Use keyword research tools to identify terms your target audience searches for. Strategically incorporate these keywords into your content naturally.
Technical SEO: Optimize your blog’s loading speed, mobile responsiveness, and overall technical aspects to improve search engine ranking.
Backlink building: Encourage other websites to link back to your content, boosting your blog’s authority in the eyes of search engines.

4. Monetization Magic: Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products or services. When a reader clicks on your affiliate link and makes a purchase, you get a commission.

Choose relevant affiliates: Promote products or services that align with your niche and resonate with your audience.
Transparency is key: Disclose your affiliate relationships clearly to your readers and build trust.
Integrate strategically: Don’t just bombard readers with links. Weave affiliate promotions naturally into your content, highlighting the value proposition.

5. Display Advertising: A Classic Approach

Display advertising involves placing banner ads, text ads, or other visual elements on your blog. When a reader clicks on an ad, you earn revenue.

Choose reputable ad networks: Partner with established ad networks that offer competitive rates and relevant ads for your audience.
Strategic ad placement: Place ads thoughtfully, avoiding an overwhelming experience for readers.
Track your performance: Monitor ad clicks and conversions to measure the effectiveness of your ad placements and optimize for better results.

6. Offer Premium Content:

Providing exclusive, in-depth content behind a paywall can generate additional income. This could be premium blog posts, ebooks, online courses, or webinars.

Deliver exceptional value: Ensure your premium content offers significant value that justifies the price tag.
Multiple pricing options: Consider offering tiered subscription plans to cater to different audience needs and budgets.
Promote effectively: Highlight the benefits of your premium content and encourage readers to subscribe.

7. Coaching and Consulting:

Leverage your expertise by offering coaching or consulting services related to your niche. Readers who find your content valuable may be interested in personalized guidance.

Position yourself as an expert: Showcase your qualifications, experience, and client testimonials to build trust and establish your credibility.
Offer free consultations: Provide a limited free consultation to potential clients, allowing them to experience your expertise firsthand.
Develop clear packages: Outline different coaching or consulting packages with varying time commitments and pricing structures.

8. The Power of Community: Online Events and Webinars

Host online events or webinars related to your niche. These events offer valuable content while also providing an opportunity to promote other monetization avenues.

Interactive and engaging: Structure your online events to be interactive with polls, Q&A sessions, or live chats. Click here to learn more about image marketing with Q&A sessions and live chats.

9. Embrace the Power of Email Marketing:

Building an email list allows you to foster stronger relationships with your audience and promote your content and offerings directly.

Offer valuable incentives: Encourage readers to subscribe by offering exclusive content, discounts, or early access to new products.
Segmentation is key: Segment your email list based on reader interests to send targeted campaigns that resonate more effectively.
Regular communication: Maintain consistent communication with your subscribers through engaging newsletters or updates.

10. Sell Your Own Products:

Take your expertise to the next level by creating and selling your own products. This could be physical merchandise, digital downloads, or even printables related to your niche.

Identify audience needs: Develop products that address the specific needs and desires of your target audience.
High-quality offerings: Invest in creating high-quality products that offer exceptional value and user experience.
Utilize multiple platforms: Sell your products through your blog, online marketplaces, or even social media platforms.

11. Sponsorships and Brand Collaborations:

Partner with brands or businesses relevant to your niche for sponsored content or collaborations. This can be a lucrative way to leverage your audience and generate income.

Maintain editorial control: While working with sponsors, ensure you retain editorial control to maintain your blog’s authenticity and audience trust.
Disclosures are essential: Clearly disclose sponsored content to readers, upholding transparency and ethical practices.
Align with your niche: Partner with brands that complement your content and resonate with your audience.

12. Freelancing and Paid Writing Opportunities:

Your blog can serve as a springboard for freelance writing opportunities. Showcase your writing skills and expertise through your blog content, attracting potential clients.

Target relevant publications: Identify online publications, websites, or magazines related to your niche and pitch your writing services.
High-quality samples: Include high-quality blog posts from your site as writing samples when pitching to potential clients.
Develop strong writing skills: Continuously hone your writing skills and stay updated on current trends in your niche to deliver exceptional work.

Conclusion:

Building a successful blog that generates income requires dedication, strategic planning, and high-quality content. In today’s digital age, there are numerous opportunities to make money online through blogging. By utilizing a combination of methods such as affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling digital products or services, you can leverage your blog’s potential and achieve financial success.

Remember, consistency in posting, engaging with your audience, and staying adaptable to trends are key to thriving in the ever-evolving blogosphere. Embrace new strategies, refine your approaches, and always keep your readers at the forefront of your content creation journey. With dedication and the right approach, your blog has the potential to become a valuable source of income and a platform for sharing your knowledge and passion with the world, making money online while doing what you love.

Image Credit: DepositPhotos

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Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?

Published

6 months ago

March 18, 2024

Max

Snapchat Explores New Messaging Retention Feature: A Game-Changer or Risky Move?

In a recent announcement, Snapchat revealed a groundbreaking update that challenges its traditional design ethos. The platform is experimenting with an option that allows users to defy the 24-hour auto-delete rule, a feature synonymous with Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging model.

The proposed change aims to introduce a “Never delete” option in messaging retention settings, aligning Snapchat more closely with conventional messaging apps. While this move may blur Snapchat’s distinctive selling point, Snap appears convinced of its necessity.

According to Snap, the decision stems from user feedback and a commitment to innovation based on user needs. The company aims to provide greater flexibility and control over conversations, catering to the preferences of its community.

Currently undergoing trials in select markets, the new feature empowers users to adjust retention settings on a conversation-by-conversation basis. Flexibility remains paramount, with participants able to modify settings within chats and receive in-chat notifications to ensure transparency.

Snapchat underscores that the default auto-delete feature will persist, reinforcing its design philosophy centered on ephemerality. However, with the app gaining traction as a primary messaging platform, the option offers users a means to preserve longer chat histories.

The update marks a pivotal moment for Snapchat, renowned for its disappearing message premise, especially popular among younger demographics. Retaining this focus has been pivotal to Snapchat’s identity, but the shift suggests a broader strategy aimed at diversifying its user base.

This strategy may appeal particularly to older demographics, potentially extending Snapchat’s relevance as users age. By emulating features of conventional messaging platforms, Snapchat seeks to enhance its appeal and broaden its reach.

Yet, the introduction of message retention poses questions about Snapchat’s uniqueness. While addressing user demands, the risk of diluting Snapchat’s distinctiveness looms large.

As Snapchat ventures into uncharted territory, the outcome of this experiment remains uncertain. Will message retention propel Snapchat to new heights, or will it compromise the platform’s uniqueness?

Only time will tell.

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Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach

Published

6 months ago

February 26, 2024

Entireweb News Bot

Catering to specific audience boosts your business, says accountant turned coach

While it is tempting to try to appeal to a broad audience, the founder of alcohol-free coaching service Just the Tonic, Sandra Parker, believes the best thing you can do for your business is focus on your niche. Here’s how she did just that.

When running a business, reaching out to as many clients as possible can be tempting. But it also risks making your marketing “too generic,” warns Sandra Parker, the founder of Just The Tonic Coaching.

“From the very start of my business, I knew exactly who I could help and who I couldn’t,” Parker told My Biggest Lessons.

Parker struggled with alcohol dependence as a young professional. Today, her business targets high-achieving individuals who face challenges similar to those she had early in her career.

“I understand their frustrations, I understand their fears, and I understand their coping mechanisms and the stories they’re telling themselves,” Parker said. “Because of that, I’m able to market very effectively, to speak in a language that they understand, and am able to reach them.”Â

“I believe that it’s really important that you know exactly who your customer or your client is, and you target them, and you resist the temptation to make your marketing too generic to try and reach everyone,” she explained.

“If you speak specifically to your target clients, you will reach them, and I believe that’s the way that you’re going to be more successful.

Watch the video for more of Sandra Parker’s biggest lessons.

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