Twitter, formerly known by that name, is a social networking service where users can share short text messages, images, and videos in posts (formerly called “tweets”). It has recently been rebranded as “X”. The rebranding happened some months after its acquisition by Elon Musk. Here’s the scoop: Musk acquired Twitter through “X” Corp, aiming to create an “everything” app—a platform that combines messaging, payments, marketplace features, and more, similar to China’s WeChat[1]. The Twitter name no longer aligned with this vision, especially as X Corp plans to add financial capabilities to the app in the coming months1[2]. So, the iconic blue bird gave way to the enigmatic “X”.
Twitter was created in March 2006 by Jack Dorsey, Noah Glass, Biz Stone, and Evan Williams. It officially launched in July of the same year. By 2012, more than 100 million users were producing 340 million tweets per day. Twitter quickly became a significant part of global society. Elon Musk acquired Twitter in October 2022 for US$44 billion, aiming to promote free speech. In July 2023, Musk announced that Twitter would be rebranded as “X”, and the iconic bird logo was retired. Branding changes were completed in May 2024. Twitter was created with several goals and motivations in mind. Jack Dorsey has often described the initial concept as a way to share “the status of your life.” The platform evolved significantly from this initial concept as users found new and innovative ways to use the service.
In 2023, Elon Musk announced that Yaccarino would become the new CEO of Twitter, taking over from him in that role. This transition marks an important shift for the social media platform. Linda Yaccarino comes from a background in advertising, having previously worked as an executive at NBC Universal. This transition occurred weeks after the billionaire announced her hiring for the top spot at the social media company[3]. Yaccarino’s focus will primarily be on improving Twitter’s advertising business and relationships with advertisers. while Musk continues to concentrate on product design and new technology[4]. This change comes after a tumultuous period following Musk’s acquisition of Twitter in late 2022, which saw significant changes to the platform’s policies, features, and staff.
Linda Yaccarino’s appointment as Twitter’s CEO marks an interesting shift in the company’s leadership. Linda Yaccarino is a prominent figure in the media and advertising industry. Prior to her current role, Yaccarino was the Chairman of Global Advertising and Partnerships at NBC Universal, where she worked for over a decade. She has extensive experience in advertising, content distribution, and business development within the media industry. Yaccarino was known for modernizing NBCUniversal’s advertising approach, including developing new measurement standards and expanding the company’s digital ad offerings. She’s been recognized as one of the most influential figures in the advertising industry, often appearing on lists of powerful executives in media.
Linda Yaccarino’s appointment as Twitter’s CEO has generated mixed reactions. Supporters highlight her extensive experience in media and advertising, which could benefit Twitter’s business operations and revenue growth. However, critics express concerns about her lack of direct experience in the tech industry and the unique challenges faced by social media platforms. Ultimately, the success of this decision will depend on Yaccarino’s leadership, strategic vision, and ability to navigate Twitter’s complex landscape.
[1] Elon Musk reveals why he’s rebranding Twitter to X – as police disrupt company’s sign removal | Science & Tech News | Sky News
[2] Why is Twitter called X now? Elon Musk’s rebrand explained and where it’s going next | TechRadar
[3] wmur.com
[4] variety.com
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