<p>Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a transportation agency of the US government that regulates all aspects of civil aviation, was sued by environmental and cultural heritage organisations for allowing SpaceX to launch a rocket without a comprehensive environmental review.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched the world's most powerful rocket, but it exploded on its first integrated test flight. The blast occurred just four minutes after launching from Boca Chica, Texas on April 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX shared a video of the moment its Starship Super Heavy exploded and the residents in Port Isabel, Texas, shared their experiences and aftereffects on social media as sand and dust coated the city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Videos were shared showing debris being blasted as far as the Gulf of Mexico, over 1,400 feet (425 metres) away, while a cloud of dust floated over a small town several miles (kilometres) away.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/esas-jupiter-bound-spacecraft-juice-experiences-glitch-with-antenna-in-deep-space-587366">ESA's Jupiter-bound spacecraft JUICE experiences glitch with antenna in deep space</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The court filings obtained by CNBC showed that the lawsuit against the FAA was filed in a district court in Washington DC on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plaintiffs included: The Center for Biological Diversity, the American Bird Conservancy, SurfRider Foundation, Save Rio Grande Valley (Save RGV) and a cultural heritage organization, the Carrizo-Comecrudo Nation of Texas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US-based news outlet wrote, "The FAA failed to take the requisite hard look at the proposed project and has concluded that significant adverse effects will not occur due to purported mitigation measures."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The SpaceX Starship explosion had spread particulate matter for miles as researchers were rushed to assess environmental and health impacts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) has said that the site from where the rocket was launched is also closer to vital habitat for protected species, including Kemp's ridley sea turtle and the piping plover bird. CBD is among the groups that filed the lawsuit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Concerns have been raised as the FAA awarded SpaceX a license to launch 20 Starships a year for five years. Musk's company is required to carry out monitoring of vegetation and wildlife by a qualified biologist, including conducting a pre- and post-launch survey.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>These groups have said that these measures are not enough and there's an urgent need for a full environmental review.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jared Margolis, a senior attorney at the CBD said in a statement, "It's vital that we protect life on Earth even as we look to the stars in this modern era of spaceflight." &nbsp;</p>

<p>"Federal officials should defend vulnerable wildlife and frontline communities, not give a pass to corporate interests that want to use treasured coastal landscapes as a dumping ground for space waste," Margolis added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a transportation agency of the US government that regulates all aspects of civil aviation, was sued by environmental and cultural heritage organisations for allowing SpaceX to launch a rocket without a comprehensive environmental review.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a transportation agency of the US government that regulates all aspects of civil aviation, was sued by environmental and cultural heritage organisations for allowing SpaceX to launch a rocket without a comprehensive environmental review. Elon Musk-owned SpaceX launched the world's most powerful rocket, but it exploded on its first integrated test flight. The blast occurred just four minutes after launching from Boca Chica, Texas on April 20. SpaceX shared a video of the moment its Starship Super Heavy exploded and the residents in Port Isabel, Texas, shared their experiences and aftereffects on social media as sand and dust coated the city. Videos were shared showing debris being blasted as far as the Gulf of Mexico, over 1,400 feet (425 metres) away, while a cloud of dust floated over a small town several miles (kilometres) away. ALSO READ | ESA's Jupiter-bound spacecraft JUICE experiences glitch with antenna in deep space The court filings obtained by CNBC showed that the lawsuit against the FAA was filed in a district court in Washington DC on Monday. The plaintiffs included: The Center for Biological Diversity, the American Bird Conservancy, SurfRider Foundation, Save Rio Grande Valley (Save RGV) and a cultural heritage organization, the Carrizo-Comecrudo Nation of Texas. The US-based news outlet wrote, "The FAA failed to take the requisite hard look at the proposed project and has concluded that significant adverse effects will not occur due to purported mitigation measures." Watch this report: × The SpaceX Starship explosion had spread particulate matter for miles as researchers were rushed to assess environmental and health impacts. The Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) has said that the site from where the rocket was launched is also closer to vital habitat for protected species, including Kemp's ridley sea turtle and the piping plover bird. CBD is among the groups that filed the lawsuit. Concerns have been raised as the FAA awarded SpaceX a license to launch 20 Starships a year for five years. Musk's company is required to carry out monitoring of vegetation and wildlife by a qualified biologist, including conducting a pre- and post-launch survey. These groups have said that these measures are not enough and there's an urgent need for a full environmental review. Jared Margolis, a senior attorney at the CBD said in a statement, "It's vital that we protect life on Earth even as we look to the stars in this modern era of spaceflight." "Federal officials should defend vulnerable wildlife and frontline communities, not give a pass to corporate interests that want to use treasured coastal landscapes as a dumping ground for space waste," Margolis added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Environmental groups in US sue FAA over SpaceX Starship explosion

Nonprofits sue Federal Aviation Administration over agency's environmental clearance to SpaceX. Eric Njoka brings you the report.

US Aviation regulator sued over SpaceX starship explosion

A new lawsuit filed by environmental groups claims that SpaceX operations in Texas are hurting federally protected wildlife and critical habitats.

SpaceX rockets spark controversy

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<p>Elon Musk owned-SpaceX will be launching its powerful Spaceship spacecraft in the coming six to eight weeks, the billionaire informed during a Twitter Spaces chat on Saturday. The April 20 liftoff of Starship, which can take astronauts to the Moon and back, did not end in the way desired as it exploded minutes after liftoff in a test flight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk, during the Twitter chat, said 30 out of 33 engines of Starship worked perfectly and reached 'full thrust', which was perhaps the reason the concrete launchpad was destroyed. Musk added that the pad damage was "quite small"&nbsp;and that it would take "six to eight weeks" to get the infrastructure prepared for another launch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The outcome was roughly in (line) with what I expected and, maybe slightly exceeded my expectations,” said the SpaceX CEO.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The vehicle structural margins appear to be better than we expected. As we can tell the vehicle is actually doing somersaults towards the end and still staying intact."</p>

<h2><strong>FAA approval required</strong></h2>

<p>However, SpaceX is not allowed a relaunch opportunity until the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) completes its review that “will determine the root cause of the event and identify corrective actions the operator must implement to avoid a recurrence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We aren’t going to speculate on timelines. Safety will dictate the<strong>&nbsp;</strong>timeline," stated the FAA.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spacexs-starship-rocket-lifts-off-for-inaugural-test-flight-584528"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;SpaceX's Starship rocket lifts off for inaugural test flight</strong></a></p>

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<p>After the explosion, SpaceX stated, “Vehicle experienced multiple engines out during the flight test, lost altitude, and began to tumble."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Musk&nbsp;congratulated employees and said he’s optimistic about the programme’s progress. Many called it Musk's way of turning setbacks into 'successful failures.'&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>SpaceX asks people to contact about debris</strong></h2>

<p>After the launch, the debris from the rocket has been washing up on the shores surrounding the Starbase launch facility in Boca Chica, Texas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SpaceX has asked people not to handle or retrieve the debris of the Starship, and contact the company on its hotline at 1-866-623-0234 or email the information to recovery@spacex.com.</p>

<p>"Teams are actively monitoring both message boxes and will ensure the notification is handled appropriately. We are unable to respond to every message received, but our teams will reach out as appropriate," SpaceX officials wrote. "If you have concerns about an immediate hazard, please contact your local law enforcement agency."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/found-a-piece-of-starship-spacex-would-like-to-have-it-back-585357"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Found a piece of Starship? SpaceX would like to have it back</strong></a></p>

<p>SpaceX is the biggest rocket ever to have been built. According to Musk, Starship has the capability of being reused which could bring down the costs and help humanity set civilisation on alien planets, such as Mars.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Elon Musk owned-SpaceX will be launching its powerful Spaceship spacecraft in the coming six to eight weeks, the billionaire informed during a Twitter Spaces chat on Saturday.

Elon Musk owned-SpaceX will be launching its powerful Spaceship spacecraft in the coming six to eight weeks, the billionaire informed during a Twitter Spaces chat on Saturday. The April 20 liftoff of Starship, which can take astronauts to the Moon and back, did not end in the way desired as it exploded minutes after liftoff in a test flight. Musk, during the Twitter chat, said 30 out of 33 engines of Starship worked perfectly and reached 'full thrust', which was perhaps the reason the concrete launchpad was destroyed. Musk added that the pad damage was "quite small" and that it would take "six to eight weeks" to get the infrastructure prepared for another launch. “The outcome was roughly in (line) with what I expected and, maybe slightly exceeded my expectations,” said the SpaceX CEO. "The vehicle structural margins appear to be better than we expected. As we can tell the vehicle is actually doing somersaults towards the end and still staying intact." FAA approval required However, SpaceX is not allowed a relaunch opportunity until the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) completes its review that “will determine the root cause of the event and identify corrective actions the operator must implement to avoid a recurrence". “We aren’t going to speculate on timelines. Safety will dictate the timeline," stated the FAA. WATCH | SpaceX's Starship rocket lifts off for inaugural test flight × After the explosion, SpaceX stated, “Vehicle experienced multiple engines out during the flight test, lost altitude, and began to tumble." Meanwhile, Musk congratulated employees and said he’s optimistic about the programme’s progress. Many called it Musk's way of turning setbacks into 'successful failures.' SpaceX asks people to contact about debris After the launch, the debris from the rocket has been washing up on the shores surrounding the Starbase launch facility in Boca Chica, Texas. SpaceX has asked people not to handle or retrieve the debris of the Starship, and contact the company on its hotline at 1-866-623-0234 or email the information to recovery@spacex.com. "Teams are actively monitoring both message boxes and will ensure the notification is handled appropriately. We are unable to respond to every message received, but our teams will reach out as appropriate," SpaceX officials wrote. "If you have concerns about an immediate hazard, please contact your local law enforcement agency." ALSO READ | Found a piece of Starship? SpaceX would like to have it back SpaceX is the biggest rocket ever to have been built. According to Musk, Starship has the capability of being reused which could bring down the costs and help humanity set civilisation on alien planets, such as Mars. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Starship could be relaunched in 'six to eight' weeks, says SpaceX CEO Elon Musk

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<p>Starting next month, Twitter users may have to shell out extra money to read news articles. Twitter boss Elon Musk on Saturday informed that the microblogging platform will allow media publishers to charge users to read their articles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike buying an entire month or year subscription as is the conventional strategy employed by paywall publications, the users will be charged on a "per article basis". However, they might end up paying more if they do not avail the monthly subscription service, informed Musk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Rolling out next month, this platform will allow media publishers to charge users on a per article basis with one click," tweeted Musk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This enables users who would not sign up for a monthly subscription to pay a higher per article price for when they want to read an occasional article. Should be a major win-win for both media orgs &amp; the public," he added.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rolling out next month, this platform will allow media publishers to charge users on a per article basis with one click.<br />
<br />
This enables users who would not sign up for a monthly subscription to pay a higher per article price for when they want to read an occasional article.…</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1652349875017879552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>It is yet unclear if Twitter will be taking a share of the pie of the subscription or if only the publisher will receive the money. Some netizens also quizzed if the media publishers that are already using a&nbsp;paywall for subscription-based content will also be participating in the service.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musks-420-strategy-twitter-relaxes-cannabis-advertising-rules-to-attract-more-companies-587080" target="_blank"><strong>ALSO READ | Elon Musk's 420 strategy: Twitter relaxes cannabis advertising rules to attract more companies</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Musk and Twitter's new money-making avenues</strong></h2>

<p>Ever since taking over Twitter after completing the $44 billion deal, Musk has been seeking new avenues to generate revenues for the company. He has already fired more than 80 per cent of the Twitter staff to make the books leaner.</p>

<p>Musk started the Twitter Blue subscription service last year under which any user can receive the blue checkmark after paying a certain fee and providing identification proof.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-merges-twitter-with-x-corp-581535"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Elon Musk merges Twitter with X Corp</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-merges-twitter-with-x-corp-581535/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/musk-unveils-plan-for-creators-to-make-money-on-twitter-says-platform-will-not-keep-any-money-582530#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>Earlier this month, Musk informed that creators on Twitter will be able to charge certain money from users to access their content, ranging from 'longform text to hours-long video'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Creators have been given the freedom to offer monthly subscriptions in the $2.99, $4.99, or $9.99 bracket. Musk, in a tweet thread, informed that for the next 12 months, the creators will be making most of the money as Twitter will not charge anything.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, Twitter modified its advertisement regulations, allowing cannabis companies to advertise their products on the platform freely.</p>

<p>"Going forward, certified advertisers may feature packaged cannabis products in ad creative,"&nbsp;the company stated in a press release.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Starting next month, Twitter users may have to shell out extra money to read news articles. Twitter boss Elon Musk on Saturday informed that the microblogging platform will allow media publishers to charge users to read their articles.

Starting next month, Twitter users may have to shell out extra money to read news articles. Twitter boss Elon Musk on Saturday informed that the microblogging platform will allow media publishers to charge users to read their articles. Unlike buying an entire month or year subscription as is the conventional strategy employed by paywall publications, the users will be charged on a "per article basis". However, they might end up paying more if they do not avail the monthly subscription service, informed Musk. "Rolling out next month, this platform will allow media publishers to charge users on a per article basis with one click," tweeted Musk. "This enables users who would not sign up for a monthly subscription to pay a higher per article price for when they want to read an occasional article. Should be a major win-win for both media orgs & the public," he added. Rolling out next month, this platform will allow media publishers to charge users on a per article basis with one click. This enables users who would not sign up for a monthly subscription to pay a higher per article price for when they want to read an occasional article.… — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 29, 2023 × It is yet unclear if Twitter will be taking a share of the pie of the subscription or if only the publisher will receive the money. Some netizens also quizzed if the media publishers that are already using a paywall for subscription-based content will also be participating in the service. ALSO READ | Elon Musk's 420 strategy: Twitter relaxes cannabis advertising rules to attract more companies Musk and Twitter's new money-making avenues Ever since taking over Twitter after completing the $44 billion deal, Musk has been seeking new avenues to generate revenues for the company. He has already fired more than 80 per cent of the Twitter staff to make the books leaner. Musk started the Twitter Blue subscription service last year under which any user can receive the blue checkmark after paying a certain fee and providing identification proof. WATCH | Elon Musk merges Twitter with X Corp × Earlier this month, Musk informed that creators on Twitter will be able to charge certain money from users to access their content, ranging from 'longform text to hours-long video'. Creators have been given the freedom to offer monthly subscriptions in the $2.99, $4.99, or $9.99 bracket. Musk, in a tweet thread, informed that for the next 12 months, the creators will be making most of the money as Twitter will not charge anything. Earlier this week, Twitter modified its advertisement regulations, allowing cannabis companies to advertise their products on the platform freely. "Going forward, certified advertisers may feature packaged cannabis products in ad creative," the company stated in a press release. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk says you'll have to pay to read news on Twitter from next month. Know why

<p>Elon Musk, the current owner of Twitter, is seen&nbsp;by many&nbsp;as the reason behind its decline.&nbsp;User experience on the platform and satisfaction with work have both plummeted after Musk's takeover.</p>

<p>As the saying goes,&nbsp;customers owe businesses&nbsp;nothing and will look elsewhere if a platform doesn't satisfy their needs. This is exactly what's happening as Jack Dorsey's BlueSky project picks up steam and users start to consider alternatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former CEO of Twitter,&nbsp;Dorsey, created BlueSky as a rival to Twitter. BlueSky's user interface and Twitter's are quite similar. The microblogging platform even gave it the label "Twitter 2" because of how popular it has become, reported India Today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the time being, BlueSky's only goal is to lure the Twitter users who are dissatisfied with their user experience on the service. BlueSky aims to save users from the chaos that Twitter has descended into over the past months.<br />
<br />
But there's a catch.&nbsp;Not everyone can use the BlueSky platform. Currently in beta, it can only be accessed with an invite code.</p>

<p>One million people are currently on the waitlist for BlueSky, despite the fact that it is not accessible to the general public, demonstrating how strongly people want to get away from Twitter.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-orders-musk-to-depose-under-oath-over-fatal-tesla-car-crash-586708">Musk told to testify after his lawyer suggests his Autopilot claim could&nbsp;be&nbsp;'deepfake'</a></p>

<p>According to consumer analytics company analytics.ai, the software has been downloaded from the Apple app store more than 360,000 times across the globe, reported India Today.</p>

<p>Although Twitter and the BlueSky app are similar, Dorsey wanted to create a decentralised service. Because Twitter is a centralised service, all user information, including tweets, likes, and comments, is kept on Twitter's servers. In this configuration, Twitter has control over who gets access to, manages, and uses user data.</p>

<p>“We envision an open social media ecosystem where developers have more opportunity to build and innovate, and users have more choice and control over which services they use and their experience on social media as a whole,” Jay Graber, CEO of BlueSky, wrote in a blog post in 2022.</p>

<p>Additionally, Twitter has taken away the blue ticks from all the accounts that had previously been verified, including famous people like journalists, celebrities, politicians, and more. Now that Musk is charging for the blue tick, anyone, regardless of his or her social status, is able to obtain a verified badge on Twitter, which has caused a lot of confusion on the platform.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;'Avengers' director predicts AI-generated movies within two years</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/avengers-director-predicts-ai-generated-movies-within-two-years-586578/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>People are perplexed about which accounts to follow and which users are the real account owners. And since Musk has no intention of changing his mind, the confusion will last for a while. You can join the BlueSky waitlist and explore what the Twitter alternative has to offer while waiting to escape this chaos.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></p>


Elon Musk, the current owner of Twitter, is seen by many as the reason behind its decline. User experience on the platform and satisfaction with work have both plummeted after Musk's takeover.

Elon Musk, the current owner of Twitter, is seen by many as the reason behind its decline. User experience on the platform and satisfaction with work have both plummeted after Musk's takeover. As the saying goes, customers owe businesses nothing and will look elsewhere if a platform doesn't satisfy their needs. This is exactly what's happening as Jack Dorsey's BlueSky project picks up steam and users start to consider alternatives. The former CEO of Twitter, Dorsey, created BlueSky as a rival to Twitter. BlueSky's user interface and Twitter's are quite similar. The microblogging platform even gave it the label "Twitter 2" because of how popular it has become, reported India Today. For the time being, BlueSky's only goal is to lure the Twitter users who are dissatisfied with their user experience on the service. BlueSky aims to save users from the chaos that Twitter has descended into over the past months. But there's a catch. Not everyone can use the BlueSky platform. Currently in beta, it can only be accessed with an invite code. One million people are currently on the waitlist for BlueSky, despite the fact that it is not accessible to the general public, demonstrating how strongly people want to get away from Twitter. ALSO READ | Musk told to testify after his lawyer suggests his Autopilot claim could be 'deepfake' According to consumer analytics company analytics.ai, the software has been downloaded from the Apple app store more than 360,000 times across the globe, reported India Today. Although Twitter and the BlueSky app are similar, Dorsey wanted to create a decentralised service. Because Twitter is a centralised service, all user information, including tweets, likes, and comments, is kept on Twitter's servers. In this configuration, Twitter has control over who gets access to, manages, and uses user data. “We envision an open social media ecosystem where developers have more opportunity to build and innovate, and users have more choice and control over which services they use and their experience on social media as a whole,” Jay Graber, CEO of BlueSky, wrote in a blog post in 2022. Additionally, Twitter has taken away the blue ticks from all the accounts that had previously been verified, including famous people like journalists, celebrities, politicians, and more. Now that Musk is charging for the blue tick, anyone, regardless of his or her social status, is able to obtain a verified badge on Twitter, which has caused a lot of confusion on the platform. ALSO WATCH | 'Avengers' director predicts AI-generated movies within two years People are perplexed about which accounts to follow and which users are the real account owners. And since Musk has no intention of changing his mind, the confusion will last for a while. You can join the BlueSky waitlist and explore what the Twitter alternative has to offer while waiting to escape this chaos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is BlueSky here to stay? Jack Dorsey's Twitter alternative can be next hot thing in tech

<p>Elon Musk-owned Twitter has modified its regulations, allowing cannabis companies to advertise their products on the platform freely. The modifications come after Twitter became the first major platform earlier this year to allow cannabis advertisements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Going forward, certified advertisers may feature packaged cannabis products in ad creative,"&nbsp;the company stated in a press release. Previously, the companies could not show any product in their ads nor could they promote their sale. However, they could link the ads to their websites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They may also continue responsibly linking to their owned and operated web pages and e-commerce experiences for CBD, THC, and cannabis-related products and services. We have also made some changes for medical licensees and opened up additional recreational markets," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The microblogging platform added that it was looking forward to helping customers unlock the power of Twitter ads and connect with the cannabis conversation to drive the business forward.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Twitter allows cannabis companies to advertise, its rivals such as Meta and Google have prohibited&nbsp;such ads.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-merges-twitter-with-x-corp-581535"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Elon Musk merges Twitter with X Corp</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musk-merges-twitter-with-x-corp-581535/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/musk-unveils-plan-for-creators-to-make-money-on-twitter-says-platform-will-not-keep-any-money-582530#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>Musk and his 420 connection</strong></h2>

<p>Recreational marijuana is already legal in several US states and Twitter owner Musk has been one of the most&nbsp;420-friendly (420 is the specific time in the afternoon of April 20 when pot smokers annually celebrate the drug) entrepreneurs in the business.&nbsp;Musk in various interviews has batted for the use of psychedelics to open human consciousness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2018, Musk said&nbsp;he was mulling a buyout of Tesla for $420 per share. However,&nbsp;during a court testimony later, Musk clarified that his price offer wasn't meant to be a marijuana reference.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“420 was not chosen because of a joke; it was chosen because there was a 20 percent premium over the stock price," said Musk, adding, "There is some, I think, karma around 420. I should question whether that is good or bad karma at this point."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-testifies-in-second-day-of-tesla-tweet-trial-says-buying-share-at-420-was-no-joke-555339"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Elon Musk testifies in second day of Tesla tweet trial; says buying share at $420 was no joke</strong></a></p>

<p>Ever since taking over Twitter after completing the $44 billion deal, Musk has been seeking new avenues to generate revenues for the company. He has already fired more than 80 per cent of the Twitter staff to make the books leaner.</p>

<p>Musk started the Twitter Blue subscription service last year under which any user can receive the blue checkmark after paying a certain fee and providing identification proof.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Musk&nbsp;informed that creators on Twitter will be able to charge certain money from users to access their content, ranging from 'longform text to hours-long video'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Creators have been given the freedom to offer monthly subscriptions in the $2.99, $4.99, or $9.99 bracket. Musk, in a tweet thread, informed that for the next 12 months, the creators will be making most of the money as Twitter will not charge anything.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-what-is-c-powerful-hallucinogenic-concoction-said-to-open-door-to-spirit-world-566067"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;What is Ayahuasca? Powerful hallucinogenic concoction said to open doors to 'spirit' world</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Elon Musk-owned Twitter has modified its regulations, allowing cannabis companies to advertise their products on the platform freely. The modifications come after Twitter became the first major platform earlier this year to allow cannabis advertisements.

Elon Musk-owned Twitter has modified its regulations, allowing cannabis companies to advertise their products on the platform freely. The modifications come after Twitter became the first major platform earlier this year to allow cannabis advertisements. "Going forward, certified advertisers may feature packaged cannabis products in ad creative," the company stated in a press release. Previously, the companies could not show any product in their ads nor could they promote their sale. However, they could link the ads to their websites. "They may also continue responsibly linking to their owned and operated web pages and e-commerce experiences for CBD, THC, and cannabis-related products and services. We have also made some changes for medical licensees and opened up additional recreational markets," it added. The microblogging platform added that it was looking forward to helping customers unlock the power of Twitter ads and connect with the cannabis conversation to drive the business forward. While Twitter allows cannabis companies to advertise, its rivals such as Meta and Google have prohibited such ads. WATCH | Elon Musk merges Twitter with X Corp × Musk and his 420 connection Recreational marijuana is already legal in several US states and Twitter owner Musk has been one of the most 420-friendly (420 is the specific time in the afternoon of April 20 when pot smokers annually celebrate the drug) entrepreneurs in the business. Musk in various interviews has batted for the use of psychedelics to open human consciousness. In 2018, Musk said he was mulling a buyout of Tesla for $420 per share. However, during a court testimony later, Musk clarified that his price offer wasn't meant to be a marijuana reference. “420 was not chosen because of a joke; it was chosen because there was a 20 percent premium over the stock price," said Musk, adding, "There is some, I think, karma around 420. I should question whether that is good or bad karma at this point." ALSO READ | Elon Musk testifies in second day of Tesla tweet trial; says buying share at $420 was no joke Ever since taking over Twitter after completing the $44 billion deal, Musk has been seeking new avenues to generate revenues for the company. He has already fired more than 80 per cent of the Twitter staff to make the books leaner. Musk started the Twitter Blue subscription service last year under which any user can receive the blue checkmark after paying a certain fee and providing identification proof. Earlier this year, Musk informed that creators on Twitter will be able to charge certain money from users to access their content, ranging from 'longform text to hours-long video'. Creators have been given the freedom to offer monthly subscriptions in the $2.99, $4.99, or $9.99 bracket. Musk, in a tweet thread, informed that for the next 12 months, the creators will be making most of the money as Twitter will not charge anything. ALSO READ | What is Ayahuasca? Powerful hallucinogenic concoction said to open doors to 'spirit' world (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Elon Musk's 420 strategy: Twitter relaxes cannabis advertising rules to attract more companies

<p>A judge in California, USA has ordered billionaire entrepreneur and Tesla CEO Elon Musk to be interviewed under oath about whether he made certain comments about Tesla's Autopilot features. The comments are being considered vital in relation to a lawsuit concerning death of an Apple engineer who died in a Tesla car crash in 2018.</p>

<p>Family of Walter Huang, the engineer has filed a lawsuit against Tesla in Santa Clara Superior Court. Tesla's lawyers have claimed that Musk can't recall the details of his statements that the plaintiffs want to ask him about saying that Musk is often the subject of 'deepfake' videos.</p>

<p>Huang’s family argues Tesla’s partially automated driving software failed. The carmaker contends Huang was playing a videogame on his phone before the crash and disregarded vehicle warnings.</p>

<p>Plaintiff attorneys sought to depose Musk regarding recorded statements that tout the capabilities of Autopilot. The ruling that Musk must testify was tentative, and a hearing was set for Thursday on whether to depose him. California judges often issue tentative rulings, which are almost always finalized with few major changes after such a hearing.</p>

<p>Musk will likely be asked about a 2016 statement cited by plaintiffs, in which he allegedly said: "A Model S and Model X, at this point, can drive autonomously with greater safety than a person. Right now.”</p>

<p>Tesla has claimed that Musk does not recall the exact statement he made.</p>

<p>In addition Musk, “like many public figures, is the subject of many ‘deepfake’ videos and audio recordings that purport to show him saying and doing things he never actually said or did,” Tesla said.</p>

<p>Judge Evette Pennypacker tentatively ordered a limited, three-hour deposition where Musk could be asked whether he actually made the statements on the recordings, and called Tesla’s arguments “deeply troubling.”</p>

<p>“Their position is that because Mr Musk is famous and might be more of a target for deep fakes, his public statements are immune,” Pennypacker wrote, adding that such arguments would allow Musk and other famous people “to avoid taking ownership of what they did actually say and do.”</p>

<p>The plaintiffs also claim that Musk finalized the details of a 2016 promotional video that states, “The car is driving itself." The video displayed some features that did not exist at the time, the plaintiffs said, citing multiple Tesla engineers.</p>

<p>The lawsuit is scheduled to go into trial on July 31, adding to growing legal and regulatory scrutiny over Tesla's Autopilot system.</p>

<p>A California state court jury on Friday found Tesla's Autopilot feature did not fail in what appeared to be the first trial related to a crash involving the partially automated driving software.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A judge in California, USA has ordered billionaire entrepreneur and Tesla CEO Elon Musk to be interviewed under oath about whether he made certain comments about Tesla's Autopilot features.

A judge in California, USA has ordered billionaire entrepreneur and Tesla CEO Elon Musk to be interviewed under oath about whether he made certain comments about Tesla's Autopilot features. The comments are being considered vital in relation to a lawsuit concerning death of an Apple engineer who died in a Tesla car crash in 2018. Family of Walter Huang, the engineer has filed a lawsuit against Tesla in Santa Clara Superior Court. Tesla's lawyers have claimed that Musk can't recall the details of his statements that the plaintiffs want to ask him about saying that Musk is often the subject of 'deepfake' videos. Huang’s family argues Tesla’s partially automated driving software failed. The carmaker contends Huang was playing a videogame on his phone before the crash and disregarded vehicle warnings. Plaintiff attorneys sought to depose Musk regarding recorded statements that tout the capabilities of Autopilot. The ruling that Musk must testify was tentative, and a hearing was set for Thursday on whether to depose him. California judges often issue tentative rulings, which are almost always finalized with few major changes after such a hearing. Musk will likely be asked about a 2016 statement cited by plaintiffs, in which he allegedly said: "A Model S and Model X, at this point, can drive autonomously with greater safety than a person. Right now.” Tesla has claimed that Musk does not recall the exact statement he made. In addition Musk, “like many public figures, is the subject of many ‘deepfake’ videos and audio recordings that purport to show him saying and doing things he never actually said or did,” Tesla said. Judge Evette Pennypacker tentatively ordered a limited, three-hour deposition where Musk could be asked whether he actually made the statements on the recordings, and called Tesla’s arguments “deeply troubling.” “Their position is that because Mr Musk is famous and might be more of a target for deep fakes, his public statements are immune,” Pennypacker wrote, adding that such arguments would allow Musk and other famous people “to avoid taking ownership of what they did actually say and do.” The plaintiffs also claim that Musk finalized the details of a 2016 promotional video that states, “The car is driving itself." The video displayed some features that did not exist at the time, the plaintiffs said, citing multiple Tesla engineers. The lawsuit is scheduled to go into trial on July 31, adding to growing legal and regulatory scrutiny over Tesla's Autopilot system. A California state court jury on Friday found Tesla's Autopilot feature did not fail in what appeared to be the first trial related to a crash involving the partially automated driving software. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Musk told to testify after his lawyer suggests his Autopilot claim could be 'deepfake'

Elon Musk appears to have admitted on Twitter that he has a covert, anonymous burner account. The CEO posted a screenshot of his personal account with the intention of using it as an example of how to use Twitter's "subscriptions" feature. Mr. Musk displayed the fact that nearly 25,000 individuals have subscribed to his account, which allows users to charge extra for access to premium content.

Elon Musk accidently leaks burner account, shares screenshot on Twitter handle

<p>Canadian singer Grimes has said she is fine with her voice being used for AI-generated songs- as long as she gets the royalties. The songwriter, producer and performer said in an Instagram post that she would treat an AI hit using her voice as she would collaboration with any artist.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
"Feel free to use my voice without penalty," Grimes said in a post on her verified Instagram account. "I'll split 50 percent royalties on any successful AI-generated song that uses my voice."</p>

<p>Grimes added that she has no obligations to a recording label so can uphold the offer.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CrbdAQou1Ug/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ☘︎𝔊𝔯𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰࿎ (@grimes)</a></p>
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<p>The singer's post made a reference to news about AI being used to imitate Canadian singers Drake and The Weeknd. The viral song was released last week but was pulled down two days later by Universal Music Group. The company manages both the artists and said it violated copyrights&nbsp;</p>

<p>The use of AI in music is the subject of debate in the industry, with some denouncing copyright abuses and others praising its prowess.<br />
<br />
Steadily improving generative AI from OpenAI has fueled debate about whether the software respects intellectual property.<br />
Grimes is a former partner of Tesla chief Elon Musk, with whom she had two children, including one by surrogate mother.</p>

<p>Musk has called AI a threat to humanity while simultaneously investing in the technology.</p>

<p><em>(with agency inputs)</em></p>


Canadian singer Grimes has said she is fine with her voice being used for AI-generated songs- as long as she gets the royalties. The songwriter, producer and performer said in an Instagram post that she would treat an AI hit using her voice as she would collaboration with any artist.

Canadian singer Grimes has said she is fine with her voice being used for AI-generated songs- as long as she gets the royalties. The songwriter, producer and performer said in an Instagram post that she would treat an AI hit using her voice as she would collaboration with any artist. "Feel free to use my voice without penalty," Grimes said in a post on her verified Instagram account. "I'll split 50 percent royalties on any successful AI-generated song that uses my voice." Grimes added that she has no obligations to a recording label so can uphold the offer. View this post on Instagram A post shared by ☘︎𝔊𝔯𝔦𝔪𝔢𝔰࿎ (@grimes) × The singer's post made a reference to news about AI being used to imitate Canadian singers Drake and The Weeknd. The viral song was released last week but was pulled down two days later by Universal Music Group. The company manages both the artists and said it violated copyrights The use of AI in music is the subject of debate in the industry, with some denouncing copyright abuses and others praising its prowess. Steadily improving generative AI from OpenAI has fueled debate about whether the software respects intellectual property. Grimes is a former partner of Tesla chief Elon Musk, with whom she had two children, including one by surrogate mother. Musk has called AI a threat to humanity while simultaneously investing in the technology. (with agency inputs)

Singer Grimes says AI can use her voice for songs: Feel free to use my voice

<p>Twitter owner Elon Musk on Tuesday said that verified Twitter accounts will be prioritised. Taking to the social media platform, the billionaire tweeted, "Verified accounts are now prioritised".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk's tweet comes after the coveted blue checkmarks were taken away by Twitter on Thursday from verified accounts which were enjoying the verified status before the billionaire took over the social media platform.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Verified accounts are now prioritized</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1650731557164818437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Musk, in another tweet, wrote "Sometimes, when you learn about something, you think you have it."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-musk-turn-twitter-gives-free-blue-ticks-to-any-account-with-one-million-followers-585280">In a 'Musk-turn', Twitter gives free blue ticks to any account with one million followers</a></p>

<p>As per one of the replies to Musk's tweet, ‘prioritising’ of verified handled would mean that the verified profiles, which are the profiles subscribed to Twitter Blue, will get special attention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“…if your account is verified, people looking at Twitter are more likely to see your posts,” said the user account ‘Bob Is Here To Explain.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Twitter is giving special attention to people who have had their account verified. That means that if your account is verified, people looking at Twitter are more likely to see your posts.</p>
— Bob Is Here To Explain (@ExplainThisBob) <a href="https://twitter.com/ExplainThisBob/status/1650731910178521089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitter Blue is a paid subscription service of the microblogging website which costs $7.99 a month and the accounts subscribed to it are granted blue ticks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was said that only users who had a subscription to Twitter Blue will get the verification badge along with access to new features.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The features include editing tweets, through which the users will be able to edit their tweets till 30 minutes after posting, NFT profile pictures, bookmark folders and custom app icons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The service was made available for web, Android and iOS devices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk, in a tweet on March 19, had said that in the coming weeks, Twitter will prioritise replies from people a user follows, unverified profiles and verified handles.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In the coming weeks, Twitter will prioritize replies by:<br />
<br />
1. People you follow<br />
2. Verified accounts<br />
3. Unverified accounts<br />
<br />
Verified accounts are 1000X harder to game by bot &amp; troll armies.<br />
<br />
There is great wisdom to the old saying: “You get what you pay for.”</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1637198368714772486?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Twitter strips away blue ticks, then reinstates</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement was made by Musk on Tuesday, days after Twitter took away the blue ticks of various users, which included celebrities, if they had not subscribed to Twitter Blue. Two days later, the blue tick reappeared on the accounts that had more than one million followers, which included celebrities who are alive and even those who are dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Twitter CEO Elon Musk to give stocks to employees at $20 dollar valuation</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/twitter-ceo-elon-musk-to-give-stocks-to-employees-at-20-dollar-valuation-575855/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The blue ticks were re-instated without people's knowledge, even if they had not paid and subscribed to Twitter Blue. &nbsp;Musk or Twitter did not explain the sudden re-appearance of the blue ticks.</p>

<p>From the moment, the SpaceX CEO took over the social media platform after dramatic circumstances at the San Francisco-based headquarter, major changes have been made by him in Twitter's policies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hours after he took charge, Musk fired the Indian-American CEO Parag Agrawal and later laid other top employees from the organisation.</p>

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Twitter owner Elon Musk on Tuesday said that verified Twitter accounts will be prioritised. Taking to the social media platform, the billionaire tweeted, "Verified accounts are now prioritised".

Twitter owner Elon Musk on Tuesday said that verified Twitter accounts will be prioritised. Taking to the social media platform, the billionaire tweeted, "Verified accounts are now prioritised". Musk's tweet comes after the coveted blue checkmarks were taken away by Twitter on Thursday from verified accounts which were enjoying the verified status before the billionaire took over the social media platform. Verified accounts are now prioritized — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 25, 2023 × Musk, in another tweet, wrote "Sometimes, when you learn about something, you think you have it." ALSO READ | In a 'Musk-turn', Twitter gives free blue ticks to any account with one million followers As per one of the replies to Musk's tweet, ‘prioritising’ of verified handled would mean that the verified profiles, which are the profiles subscribed to Twitter Blue, will get special attention. “…if your account is verified, people looking at Twitter are more likely to see your posts,” said the user account ‘Bob Is Here To Explain. Twitter is giving special attention to people who have had their account verified. That means that if your account is verified, people looking at Twitter are more likely to see your posts. — Bob Is Here To Explain (@ExplainThisBob) April 25, 2023 × Twitter Blue is a paid subscription service of the microblogging website which costs $7.99 a month and the accounts subscribed to it are granted blue ticks. It was said that only users who had a subscription to Twitter Blue will get the verification badge along with access to new features. The features include editing tweets, through which the users will be able to edit their tweets till 30 minutes after posting, NFT profile pictures, bookmark folders and custom app icons. The service was made available for web, Android and iOS devices. Musk, in a tweet on March 19, had said that in the coming weeks, Twitter will prioritise replies from people a user follows, unverified profiles and verified handles. In the coming weeks, Twitter will prioritize replies by: 1. People you follow 2. Verified accounts 3. Unverified accounts Verified accounts are 1000X harder to game by bot & troll armies. There is great wisdom to the old saying: “You get what you pay for.” — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 18, 2023 × Twitter strips away blue ticks, then reinstates The announcement was made by Musk on Tuesday, days after Twitter took away the blue ticks of various users, which included celebrities, if they had not subscribed to Twitter Blue. Two days later, the blue tick reappeared on the accounts that had more than one million followers, which included celebrities who are alive and even those who are dead. WATCH | Twitter CEO Elon Musk to give stocks to employees at $20 dollar valuation The blue ticks were re-instated without people's knowledge, even if they had not paid and subscribed to Twitter Blue. Musk or Twitter did not explain the sudden re-appearance of the blue ticks. From the moment, the SpaceX CEO took over the social media platform after dramatic circumstances at the San Francisco-based headquarter, major changes have been made by him in Twitter's policies. Hours after he took charge, Musk fired the Indian-American CEO Parag Agrawal and later laid other top employees from the organisation. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Verified Twitter accounts are now 'prioritised', says Musk amid blue tick fiasco

<p>The legacy blue tick is back! Though, not for everyone.&nbsp;Only celebrities with a massive follower count like Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prakash Raj, are getting their legacy blue ticks back, and that too, without any fee or subscription charge.</p>

<p>Taking to social media, many welcomed Twitter's latest move of restoring verification badges on high-profile celebrity accounts. The microblogging platform culled the legacy blue check marks on Thursday.</p>

<p>While there is no official word from Twitter on the reinstated legacy blue ticks, the Elon Musk-owned company is reportedly reinstating the verified status for handles with high follower count.</p>

<p>Amitabh Bachchan, who is an active Twitter user, gave a funny twist to his hit '90s song "Tu Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast"&nbsp;from <em>Mohra&nbsp;</em>and wrote, "Hey Musk bro! Thank you very, very much for reinstating the blue tick in front of my name. I feel like singing. Will you listen? So, listen. 'Tu cheez Musk Musk, tu cheez badi hai, Musk'."</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ed-sheeran-hit-marvin-gaye-classic-soul-of-copyright-trial-585556">Ed Sheeran hit, Marvin Gaye classic soul of copyright trial</a></p>

<p>Priyanka Chopra Jonas, on the other hand, was surprised to see the blue tick back on her Twitter handle. "Woah! Dunno how but the blue tick is back. I’m Priyanka again!"&nbsp;PeeCee&nbsp;wrote on the microblogging site.</p>

<p>"Hey #BlueTick welcome back. I missed you. did u miss me #justasking. Thank you @Twitter,"&nbsp;Prakash Raj tweeted.</p>

<p>Sharing a picture of herself in a traditional Kanjivaram saree, Nayanthara wrote, "‘BLUE TICK’ Verified."</p>

<p>"The blue tick is randomly back again? What is happening?"&nbsp;wrote Malavika Mohanan.</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-super-mario-fights-off-evil-dead-to-stay-on-top-of-the-us-box-office-585550">Super Mario fights off Evil Dead to stay on top of the US box office</a></p>

<p>Since Twitter is trying to boost its revenue, it has restricted legacy blue ticks&nbsp;for paying users. People who wish to keep their verification badge have to&nbsp;pay around $8 a month. In India, they're charging between Rs 650 to Rs 900.</p>

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The legacy blue tick is back! Though, not for everyone. Only celebrities with a massive follower count like Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prakash Raj, are getting their legacy blue ticks back, and that too, without any fee or subscription charge.

The legacy blue tick is back! Though, not for everyone. Only celebrities with a massive follower count like Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Prakash Raj, are getting their legacy blue ticks back, and that too, without any fee or subscription charge. Taking to social media, many welcomed Twitter's latest move of restoring verification badges on high-profile celebrity accounts. The microblogging platform culled the legacy blue check marks on Thursday. While there is no official word from Twitter on the reinstated legacy blue ticks, the Elon Musk-owned company is reportedly reinstating the verified status for handles with high follower count. Amitabh Bachchan, who is an active Twitter user, gave a funny twist to his hit '90s song "Tu Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast" from Mohra and wrote, "Hey Musk bro! Thank you very, very much for reinstating the blue tick in front of my name. I feel like singing. Will you listen? So, listen. 'Tu cheez Musk Musk, tu cheez badi hai, Musk'." Also read: Ed Sheeran hit, Marvin Gaye classic soul of copyright trial Priyanka Chopra Jonas, on the other hand, was surprised to see the blue tick back on her Twitter handle. "Woah! Dunno how but the blue tick is back. I’m Priyanka again!" PeeCee wrote on the microblogging site. "Hey #BlueTick welcome back. I missed you. did u miss me #justasking. Thank you @Twitter," Prakash Raj tweeted. Sharing a picture of herself in a traditional Kanjivaram saree, Nayanthara wrote, "‘BLUE TICK’ Verified." "The blue tick is randomly back again? What is happening?" wrote Malavika Mohanan. Also read: Super Mario fights off Evil Dead to stay on top of the US box office Since Twitter is trying to boost its revenue, it has restricted legacy blue ticks for paying users. People who wish to keep their verification badge have to pay around $8 a month. In India, they're charging between Rs 650 to Rs 900. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Celebs rejoice as Twitter reinstates legacy blue tick for some accounts

In 2020, Justin Hsu of Los Angeles sued Tesla for autopilot defect. Finally the court has come with a decision. Court finds Tesla's autopilot feature is not defected. To know more, watch the video.

Court finds Tesla's autopilot feature did not fail in trial

<p>Days after the Blue Checks disappeared from various accounts, the esteemed badge for verification suddenly appeared on any and every account that has more than a million followers on Sunday morning. Since Elon Musk took over Twitter, the social media platform has seen some major and shocking developments, but this update has left netizens wondering if Twittersphere has actually gone bonkers.</p>

<h2><strong>Blue Check – paid or unpaid?</strong></h2>

<p>The appearance of Blue Checks on accounts with more than a million followers has resulted in more meme accounts getting the blue tick compared to the account of newsmakers. The Blue Checks appeared on the accounts regardless of whether they paid for the Twitter Blue subscription which charges $8 per month.</p>

<p>The users have been left baffled by the update, which to some is appearing as a glitch, while those who were earlier enjoying the exclusive verified status have now become part of a bizarre club.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/explained-a-twitter-without-blue-ticks-heres-how-you-see-if-an-account-is-real-584827">Explained | Twitter yanks blue ticks but there's still a way to see if an account is real</a></p>

<h2><strong>Celebs, alive and deceased, get verified</strong></h2>

<p>This sudden appearance of Blue Checks returned the verified status to the accounts of celebrities, even those who are dead like - Anthony Bourdain, Chadwick Boseman, and Kobe Bryant. Consent as a necessary aspect has certainly lost its place on the social media platform as the dead celebrities won't be ever able to provide their consent for the blue verification.</p>

<p>Despite no consent from the deceased, the accounts have still been given the honoured status of paid blue checks.</p>

<h2><strong>Meme overlords become new members of verified elite club</strong></h2>

<p>Meme accounts like @TheTweetofGod along with numerous cat accounts have now become verified as per the new development which grants free Blue Checks to accounts with a million followers.</p>

<p>With meme accounts getting the verified badge, it is difficult to predict where Twitter is headed to.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Many high-profile users lose verification symbol on Twitter</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Another glitch or Musk's mayhem</strong></h2>

<p>This peculiar update has left netizens wondering if this is a glitch as Musk tries to revamp the verification process of the social media platform or if it's another U-turn by the billionaire.</p>

<p>Any inquiry made into this update is of no use as Twitter has been operating currently without a press team and responds to any questions with nothing but a single poop emoji.</p>

<p>Recently, a new policy was implemented by Twitter which took away the blue verification badges from users who did not subscribe to the premium service of Twitter Blue. However, some users like LeBron James and Stephen King appeared to have been exempted from this rule when it was implemented.</p>

<p>Musk had stated that the blue checkmarks which were earlier given were "corrupt and nonsensical" and had called the verification system as a "lords &amp; peasants system".</p>

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Days after the Blue Checks disappeared from various accounts, the esteemed badge for verification suddenly appeared on any and every account that has more than a million followers on Sunday morning.

Days after the Blue Checks disappeared from various accounts, the esteemed badge for verification suddenly appeared on any and every account that has more than a million followers on Sunday morning. Since Elon Musk took over Twitter, the social media platform has seen some major and shocking developments, but this update has left netizens wondering if Twittersphere has actually gone bonkers. Blue Check – paid or unpaid? The appearance of Blue Checks on accounts with more than a million followers has resulted in more meme accounts getting the blue tick compared to the account of newsmakers. The Blue Checks appeared on the accounts regardless of whether they paid for the Twitter Blue subscription which charges $8 per month. The users have been left baffled by the update, which to some is appearing as a glitch, while those who were earlier enjoying the exclusive verified status have now become part of a bizarre club. ALSO READ | Explained | Twitter yanks blue ticks but there's still a way to see if an account is real Celebs, alive and deceased, get verified This sudden appearance of Blue Checks returned the verified status to the accounts of celebrities, even those who are dead like - Anthony Bourdain, Chadwick Boseman, and Kobe Bryant. Consent as a necessary aspect has certainly lost its place on the social media platform as the dead celebrities won't be ever able to provide their consent for the blue verification. Despite no consent from the deceased, the accounts have still been given the honoured status of paid blue checks. Meme overlords become new members of verified elite club Meme accounts like @TheTweetofGod along with numerous cat accounts have now become verified as per the new development which grants free Blue Checks to accounts with a million followers. With meme accounts getting the verified badge, it is difficult to predict where Twitter is headed to. WATCH | Many high-profile users lose verification symbol on Twitter Another glitch or Musk's mayhem This peculiar update has left netizens wondering if this is a glitch as Musk tries to revamp the verification process of the social media platform or if it's another U-turn by the billionaire. Any inquiry made into this update is of no use as Twitter has been operating currently without a press team and responds to any questions with nothing but a single poop emoji. Recently, a new policy was implemented by Twitter which took away the blue verification badges from users who did not subscribe to the premium service of Twitter Blue. However, some users like LeBron James and Stephen King appeared to have been exempted from this rule when it was implemented. Musk had stated that the blue checkmarks which were earlier given were "corrupt and nonsensical" and had called the verification system as a "lords & peasants system". You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In a 'Musk-turn', Twitter gives free blue ticks to any account with one million followers

<p>Twitter boss Elon Musk admitted that he is paying for some prominent Twitter accounts to retain their blue ticks after the social media giant removed the blue checkmark verification from social media accounts that had not paid a monthly fee to keep it. Numerous high-profile accounts including celebrities, politicians, and others lost their blue verification checkmark.</p>

<p>Twitter also dropped the government-funded labels which imply government involvement in editorial content, from the accounts of various global media organisations including&nbsp;US-based National Public Radio (NPR), British Broadcasting Corp, and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).</p>

<p>On Friday (April 21), Musk said that he was paying for the Twitter accounts of Canadian actor William Shatner, author Stephen King and basketball legend LeBron James.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, Twitter Daily News said that some celebrities were offered a complimentary blue tick on behalf of Musk, to which he replied, "I’m paying for a few personally."<br />
"Just Shatner, LeBron and King," he then said in a reply to a tweet by Pop Base.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/explained-a-twitter-without-blue-ticks-heres-how-you-see-if-an-account-is-real-584827">Explained: A Twitter without blue ticks. Here’s how to see if an account is real</a></strong></p>

<p>The three celebrities have been critics of the blue tick fees and have previously complained about the move on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, LeBron James tweeted that he was not paying for the blue tick. "Welp guess my blue will be gone soon cause if you know me I ain’t paying the 5," James tweeted on March 31.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welp guess my blue ✔️ will be gone soon cause if you know me I ain’t paying the 5. 🤷🏾‍♂️</p>
— LeBron James (@KingJames) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingJames/status/1641836984195743749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>And according to a report by the Verge on Thursday, a Twitter employee mailed the basketball star to extend a complimentary subscription to Twitter Blue on behalf of Elon Musk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Author Stephen King, meanwhile,&nbsp;was baffled that he was a Twitter Blue subscriber.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My Twitter account says I’ve subscribed to Twitter Blue. I haven’t. My Twitter account says I’ve given a phone number. I haven’t," King tweeted on Friday to which Elon Musk said, "You’re welcome namaste."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">You’re welcome namaste 🙏</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1649181726395052039?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Under the original blue-check system, Twitter had roughly 400,000 verified users. And in the past, these checks meant that Twitter had verified that users were who they said they were.</p>

<p>But the removal of the verification mark public agencies and other organisations around the world scrambling to figure out a way to show that they are trustworthy and avoid impersonators. Several agencies are awaiting more clarity from Twitter in this matter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday, the removal of the verification remark has raised concerns that Twitter could lose its status as a platform for getting accurate, up-to-date information from authentic sources, including in emergencies.</p>

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Twitter boss Elon Musk admitted that he is paying for some prominent Twitter accounts to retain their blue ticks after the social media giant removed the blue checkmark verification from social media accounts that had not paid a monthly fee to keep it.

Twitter boss Elon Musk admitted that he is paying for some prominent Twitter accounts to retain their blue ticks after the social media giant removed the blue checkmark verification from social media accounts that had not paid a monthly fee to keep it. Numerous high-profile accounts including celebrities, politicians, and others lost their blue verification checkmark. Twitter also dropped the government-funded labels which imply government involvement in editorial content, from the accounts of various global media organisations including US-based National Public Radio (NPR), British Broadcasting Corp, and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). On Friday (April 21), Musk said that he was paying for the Twitter accounts of Canadian actor William Shatner, author Stephen King and basketball legend LeBron James. In a tweet, Twitter Daily News said that some celebrities were offered a complimentary blue tick on behalf of Musk, to which he replied, "I’m paying for a few personally." "Just Shatner, LeBron and King," he then said in a reply to a tweet by Pop Base. ALSO READ | Explained: A Twitter without blue ticks. Here’s how to see if an account is real The three celebrities have been critics of the blue tick fees and have previously complained about the move on Twitter. Last month, LeBron James tweeted that he was not paying for the blue tick. "Welp guess my blue will be gone soon cause if you know me I ain’t paying the 5," James tweeted on March 31. Welp guess my blue ✔️ will be gone soon cause if you know me I ain’t paying the 5. 🤷🏾‍♂️ — LeBron James (@KingJames) March 31, 2023 × And according to a report by the Verge on Thursday, a Twitter employee mailed the basketball star to extend a complimentary subscription to Twitter Blue on behalf of Elon Musk. Author Stephen King, meanwhile, was baffled that he was a Twitter Blue subscriber. "My Twitter account says I’ve subscribed to Twitter Blue. I haven’t. My Twitter account says I’ve given a phone number. I haven’t," King tweeted on Friday to which Elon Musk said, "You’re welcome namaste." You’re welcome namaste 🙏 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 20, 2023 × Under the original blue-check system, Twitter had roughly 400,000 verified users. And in the past, these checks meant that Twitter had verified that users were who they said they were. But the removal of the verification mark public agencies and other organisations around the world scrambling to figure out a way to show that they are trustworthy and avoid impersonators. Several agencies are awaiting more clarity from Twitter in this matter. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press on Friday, the removal of the verification remark has raised concerns that Twitter could lose its status as a platform for getting accurate, up-to-date information from authentic sources, including in emergencies. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Elon Musk pays for few celebrities to retain their Twitter blue ticks

<p>Twitter removed "state-affiliated" and "government-funded" labels from media accounts, as per a review by AFP news agency on Friday.</p>

<p>According to AFP, the news agency looked at a number of prominent pages on the platform and saw that many of the top media organisations from Western countries, Russia, China, and other nations that had previously used either of those tags no longer had them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media portals like National Public Radio (NPR) and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) lost their labels which is given by Twitter to imply a government involvement in editorial content, as per Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China's official Xinhua news agency and RT from Russia also lost the tags.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-hits-back-at-g7-says-position-as-nuclear-state-final-and-irreversible-584618">North Korea hits back at G7, says position as nuclear state 'final and irreversible'</a></p>

<p>As per Twitter, State-affiliated media labels and Government labels are given to state-affiliated profiles to provide additional context about accounts that are controlled by certain state-affiliated media entities and individuals closely associated with those entities.&nbsp;Government labels apply to accounts heavily engaged in geopolitics and diplomacy from main countries where Twitter operates.</p>

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<p>This comes after Twitter removed the blue checkmark verification from social media accounts which had not paid a monthly fee. Many high-profile accounts, including those of politicians and celebs, lost the blue tick.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It included Pope Francis, Bill Gates, Kim Kardashian, former US president Donald J. Trump, Lady Gaga.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-russian-recruitment-ad-calling-for-real-men-to-fight-in-ukraine-584624">Russian recruitment ad calling for 'real men' to fight in Ukraine</a></p>

<p>However, many others retained their Blue ticks. For instance, Barack Obama, Taylor Swift, and Britney Spears, among others.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Have British schools become breeding grounds for Anti-Hindu hate?</strong></p>

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<p>Whether everyone who maintained their blue tick had paid for it was unclear. Before, only verified accounts of prominent figures including journalists, legislators, and well-known people could display the coveted blue tick symbol. A monthly membership plan was made available to anybody willing to pay for the Blue ticks.&nbsp;</p>

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Twitter removed "state-affiliated" and "government-funded" labels from media accounts, as per a review by AFP news agency on Friday. According to AFP, the news agency looked at a number of prominent pages on the platform and saw that many of the top media organisations from Western countries, Russia, China, and other nations that had previously used either of those tags no longer had them.

Twitter removed "state-affiliated" and "government-funded" labels from media accounts, as per a review by AFP news agency on Friday. According to AFP, the news agency looked at a number of prominent pages on the platform and saw that many of the top media organisations from Western countries, Russia, China, and other nations that had previously used either of those tags no longer had them. Media portals like National Public Radio (NPR) and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) lost their labels which is given by Twitter to imply a government involvement in editorial content, as per Reuters. China's official Xinhua news agency and RT from Russia also lost the tags. Also Read | North Korea hits back at G7, says position as nuclear state 'final and irreversible' As per Twitter, State-affiliated media labels and Government labels are given to state-affiliated profiles to provide additional context about accounts that are controlled by certain state-affiliated media entities and individuals closely associated with those entities. Government labels apply to accounts heavily engaged in geopolitics and diplomacy from main countries where Twitter operates. This comes after Twitter removed the blue checkmark verification from social media accounts which had not paid a monthly fee. Many high-profile accounts, including those of politicians and celebs, lost the blue tick. It included Pope Francis, Bill Gates, Kim Kardashian, former US president Donald J. Trump, Lady Gaga. Also Read | Russian recruitment ad calling for 'real men' to fight in Ukraine However, many others retained their Blue ticks. For instance, Barack Obama, Taylor Swift, and Britney Spears, among others. Watch | Have British schools become breeding grounds for Anti-Hindu hate? × Whether everyone who maintained their blue tick had paid for it was unclear. Before, only verified accounts of prominent figures including journalists, legislators, and well-known people could display the coveted blue tick symbol. A monthly membership plan was made available to anybody willing to pay for the Blue ticks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Twitter drops 'state-affiliated' labels from media accounts

Since a change to Twitter's venerable blue tick mark system went into effect on Thursday, the iconic blue tick verification symbol has vanished from a number of accounts. Notable users who have lost their verification include former US President Donald Trump and Pope Francis.

Many high-profile users lose verification symbol on Twitter

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidhKRjZ3iDvFY2" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Space X's Starship, the world's biggest rocket,<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/spacexs-starship-worlds-biggest-rocket-successfully-lifts-off-on-first-test-flight-584489"> exploded during its first test flight on Thursday</a></strong> (April 20). The rocket exploded just minutes after launching from the Gulf Coast Starbase facility in south Texas. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, webcast viewers were awaiting the expected upper-stage Starship's separation from the lower-stage Super Heavy rocket when the combined vehicle began flipping end over end. The explosion followed moments later, leaving a trail of smoke and falling debris.</p>

<p>Reuters tweeted a video of the explosion. The rocket reached a peak altitude of nearly 32 kilometres before the explosion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fiery disintegration of the rocket was also captured on a live event on Facebook.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-loses-billions-in-net-worth-after-starship-explosion-teslas-underperformance-584620">Elon Musk loses billions in net worth after Starship explosion, Tesla's underperformance</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite the failure of the test flight, SpaceX declared it a success with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Elon Musk congratulating his team on an "exciting" test of the next-generation spacecraft designed to send astronauts to the Moon, Mars and beyond.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The first test of SpaceX's Starship, the most powerful launch system ever built, ends in a fiery explosion <a href="https://t.co/nprwQOTMRW">https://t.co/nprwQOTMRW</a> <a href="https://t.co/kxX6ho0Bqs">pic.twitter.com/kxX6ho0Bqs</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1649124523135094786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Congrats SpaceX team on an exciting test launch of Starship! Learned a lot for next test launch in a few months," Musk tweeted. Ahead of the test flight, Musk had warned that technical issues were likely and sought to play down expectations for the inaugural flight.</p>

<p>SpaceX, meanwhile, said in a statement, "With a test like this, success comes from what we learn, and we learned a tremendous amount about the vehicle and ground systems today that will help us improve on future flights of Starship."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starship consists of a 164-foot (50-meter) tall crew vehicle that sits atop a 230-foot tall first-stage Super Heavy booster rocket. In February, SpaceX had conducted a successful test firing of the 33 massive Raptor engines on the booster in Starship<strong>&nbsp;</strong>spacecraft and the Super Heavy rocket was being flown together for the first time, the news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The launch was scheduled for Monday but was postponed to Thursday due to a frozen pressure valve on the first-stage booster.</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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Space X's Starship, the world's biggest rocket, exploded during its first test flight on Thursday (April 20). The rocket exploded just minutes after launching from the Gulf Coast Starbase facility in south Texas.

Space X's Starship, the world's biggest rocket, exploded during its first test flight on Thursday (April 20). The rocket exploded just minutes after launching from the Gulf Coast Starbase facility in south Texas. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, webcast viewers were awaiting the expected upper-stage Starship's separation from the lower-stage Super Heavy rocket when the combined vehicle began flipping end over end. The explosion followed moments later, leaving a trail of smoke and falling debris. Reuters tweeted a video of the explosion. The rocket reached a peak altitude of nearly 32 kilometres before the explosion. The fiery disintegration of the rocket was also captured on a live event on Facebook. ALSO READ | Elon Musk loses billions in net worth after Starship explosion, Tesla's underperformance Despite the failure of the test flight, SpaceX declared it a success with Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Elon Musk congratulating his team on an "exciting" test of the next-generation spacecraft designed to send astronauts to the Moon, Mars and beyond. The first test of SpaceX's Starship, the most powerful launch system ever built, ends in a fiery explosion https://t.co/nprwQOTMRW pic.twitter.com/kxX6ho0Bqs — Reuters (@Reuters) April 20, 2023 × "Congrats SpaceX team on an exciting test launch of Starship! Learned a lot for next test launch in a few months," Musk tweeted. Ahead of the test flight, Musk had warned that technical issues were likely and sought to play down expectations for the inaugural flight. SpaceX, meanwhile, said in a statement, "With a test like this, success comes from what we learn, and we learned a tremendous amount about the vehicle and ground systems today that will help us improve on future flights of Starship." Starship consists of a 164-foot (50-meter) tall crew vehicle that sits atop a 230-foot tall first-stage Super Heavy booster rocket. In February, SpaceX had conducted a successful test firing of the 33 massive Raptor engines on the booster in Starship spacecraft and the Super Heavy rocket was being flown together for the first time, the news agency AFP reported. The launch was scheduled for Monday but was postponed to Thursday due to a frozen pressure valve on the first-stage booster. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Moment when SpaceX's Starship rocket exploded after liftoff

<p>Twitter's inventor of the hashtags that are used to categorise messages has quit the platform, claiming Elon Musk&nbsp;mismanaged it.&nbsp;Following the loss of his verification badge, Chris Messina, who in 2007 suggested Twitter begin using hashtags to organise tweets by topic or event, said goodbye to the platform this weekend.</p>

<p>Twitter has also begun the process of deleting the legacy blue ticks&nbsp;this month, and users who want&nbsp;to retain&nbsp;them would have to start paying $8 per month for a Twitter Blue subscription.</p>

<p>"My choice isn't about the badge; it's about everything that lead up to the badge and how it has been handled. Whatever Twitter was before deserved more dignity and consideration than it's received in the last six months," Messina tweeted, as reported by The Verge.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Birth of the hashtag</strong></h2>

<p>In 2007, Messina proposed the concept of hashtags, which allowed users to look up topics by using the hash sign (#). On a number of social media sites, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, the concept gained considerable traction. The hashtag allows quick subject searches for users and helps in extending the reach of posts. Trending hashtags are now shown in real time in a separate section on Twitter.</p>

<p>Additionally, hashtags can be used to filter out&nbsp;the most popular, most recent, photographs, and videos relating to a specific topic.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-from-politicians-to-millionaires-heres-who-lost-there-blue-check-on-twitter-584657">Prominent politicians, organisations lose their blue check on Twitter</a></p>

<h2><strong>Elon Musk may not be the biggest fan of hashtags</strong></h2>

<p>Twitter CEO Elon Musk has made it&nbsp;clear&nbsp;that he hates hashtags. While replying to an image that had a tweet created by ChatGPT on SpaceX, the tweet had hashtags and Musk replied with a tweet suggesting he doesn’t use hashtags.</p>

<p>The Twitterati began to speculate following Musk's remark on whether he would ban hashtags from Twitter altogether.</p>

<h2><strong>Disappearance of the blue tick</strong></h2>

<p>The "Twitter Blue" paid subscription service, a premium version of the microblogging site, has taken the place of the previous blue checkmarks used on Twitter to signify a verified prominent person.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Many high-profile users lose verification symbol on Twitter</strong></p>

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<p>The change which came into effect late on Thursday night (April 20)&nbsp;was announced just two weeks after Elon Musk took over Twitter.&nbsp;As a result, many high-profile users who decided&nbsp;not to pay for the subscription have lost their verified status or blue ticks.&nbsp;</p>

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Twitter's inventor of the hashtags that are used to categorise messages has quit the platform, claiming Elon Musk mismanaged it. Following the loss of his verification badge, Chris Messina, who in 2007 suggested Twitter begin using hashtags to organise tweets by topic or event, said goodbye to the platform this weekend.

Twitter's inventor of the hashtags that are used to categorise messages has quit the platform, claiming Elon Musk mismanaged it. Following the loss of his verification badge, Chris Messina, who in 2007 suggested Twitter begin using hashtags to organise tweets by topic or event, said goodbye to the platform this weekend. Twitter has also begun the process of deleting the legacy blue ticks this month, and users who want to retain them would have to start paying $8 per month for a Twitter Blue subscription. "My choice isn't about the badge; it's about everything that lead up to the badge and how it has been handled. Whatever Twitter was before deserved more dignity and consideration than it's received in the last six months," Messina tweeted, as reported by The Verge. Birth of the hashtag In 2007, Messina proposed the concept of hashtags, which allowed users to look up topics by using the hash sign (#). On a number of social media sites, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, the concept gained considerable traction. The hashtag allows quick subject searches for users and helps in extending the reach of posts. Trending hashtags are now shown in real time in a separate section on Twitter. Additionally, hashtags can be used to filter out the most popular, most recent, photographs, and videos relating to a specific topic. ALSO READ | Prominent politicians, organisations lose their blue check on Twitter Elon Musk may not be the biggest fan of hashtags Twitter CEO Elon Musk has made it clear that he hates hashtags. While replying to an image that had a tweet created by ChatGPT on SpaceX, the tweet had hashtags and Musk replied with a tweet suggesting he doesn’t use hashtags. The Twitterati began to speculate following Musk's remark on whether he would ban hashtags from Twitter altogether. Disappearance of the blue tick The "Twitter Blue" paid subscription service, a premium version of the microblogging site, has taken the place of the previous blue checkmarks used on Twitter to signify a verified prominent person. ALSO WATCH | Many high-profile users lose verification symbol on Twitter The change which came into effect late on Thursday night (April 20) was announced just two weeks after Elon Musk took over Twitter. As a result, many high-profile users who decided not to pay for the subscription have lost their verified status or blue ticks. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chris Messina, inventor of hashtags, quits Twitter, blames Musk's mismanagement

<p>Elon Musk's wealth recorded a significant drop in a tumultuous 24-hour period that saw Tesla's below-expectation quarterly results, the explosion of SpaceX Starship rocket, and Twitter taking away all legacy blue checkmarks.</p>

<p>All of these events have taken place in a&nbsp;24-hour period between April 19 and April 20.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-when-elon-musks-spacex-starship-dream-exploded-in-thin-air-584614">In Pictures | When Elon Musk's Starship dream exploded into successful failure</a></strong></p>

<p>They have had the most immediate consequence on Musk's wealth. The billionaire business magnate's net worth has dropped by $12.6 billion in last 24-hours, his biggest decline this year according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Tesla records 24 per cent&nbsp;drop in net income</strong></p>

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<p>For Elon Musk, his stake in Tesla, including shares and options, makes up the biggest part of his $163.9 billion fortune. He is the Chief Executive Officer of both Tesla and SpaceX, as well as Twitter, the social media platform he acquired last year. Musk continues to be the world’s second-richest person behind French luxury tycoon Bernard Arnault.</p>

<h2><strong>How Elon Musk is reacting to recent setbacks?</strong></h2>

<p>Referring to Tesla's underperformance, Musk said that "it’s difficult to say what the margin will be."</p>

<p>As for SpaceX Starship debacle, Musk congratulated employees and said he’s optimistic about the program’s progress. Many called it Musk's way of turning setbacks into 'successful failures.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Twitter, he kept the promise of removing legacy blue checkmarks, sending shockwaves beneath&nbsp;pillars of world's virtual 'town square'.</p>

<p>It’s "shaping up to be quite the day!" he tweeted, while referring to April 20 or 4/20, the unofficial pot holiday.</p>

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Elon Musk's wealth recorded a significant drop in a tumultuous 24-hour period that saw Tesla's below-expectation quarterly results, the explosion of SpaceX Starship rocket, and Twitter taking away all legacy blue checkmarks.

Elon Musk's wealth recorded a significant drop in a tumultuous 24-hour period that saw Tesla's below-expectation quarterly results, the explosion of SpaceX Starship rocket, and Twitter taking away all legacy blue checkmarks. All of these events have taken place in a 24-hour period between April 19 and April 20. ALSO READ | In Pictures | When Elon Musk's Starship dream exploded into successful failure They have had the most immediate consequence on Musk's wealth. The billionaire business magnate's net worth has dropped by $12.6 billion in last 24-hours, his biggest decline this year according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index. ALSO WATCH | Tesla records 24 per cent drop in net income × For Elon Musk, his stake in Tesla, including shares and options, makes up the biggest part of his $163.9 billion fortune. He is the Chief Executive Officer of both Tesla and SpaceX, as well as Twitter, the social media platform he acquired last year. Musk continues to be the world’s second-richest person behind French luxury tycoon Bernard Arnault. How Elon Musk is reacting to recent setbacks? Referring to Tesla's underperformance, Musk said that "it’s difficult to say what the margin will be." As for SpaceX Starship debacle, Musk congratulated employees and said he’s optimistic about the program’s progress. Many called it Musk's way of turning setbacks into 'successful failures.' On Twitter, he kept the promise of removing legacy blue checkmarks, sending shockwaves beneath pillars of world's virtual 'town square'. It’s "shaping up to be quite the day!" he tweeted, while referring to April 20 or 4/20, the unofficial pot holiday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Elon Musk loses billions in net worth after Starship explosion, Tesla's underperformance

<p>Twitter removed&nbsp;legacy verified blue ticks from all accounts on Thursday, April 20. From now on, only the accounts subscribed to paid Twitter Blue verification service would have blue ticks on the micro-blogging platform, widely described as "town square" of modern world.</p>

<p>The company initially announced plans to remove the legacy blue ticks on April 1, but the change applied to select accounts.&nbsp;Last week, Musk tweeted that the "final date for removing legacy Blue checks is 4/20," a date with special resonance to the billionaire entrepreneur given its meaning to marijuana enthusiasts.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/defending-twitters-paid-blue-tick-elon-musk-predicts-social-media-sites-without-such-model-will-fail-577878">Musk defends Twitter’s paid blue tick, says social media sites without such model ‘will fail’</a></strong></p>

<p>Immediately following the disappearance of legacy blue checks, some users began tweeting that they planned to leave the site.</p>

<p>Numerous high profile accounts, including Pope Francis, Bill Gates, former US president Donald Trump, Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga and more lost their blue verification checkmark.</p>

<p>However, Barack Obama, who has the most followers after Musk with 132.8 million retained his. This is because Obama's account is affiliated to the Barack and Michelle Obama office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Taylor Swift, Ellen DeGeneres, and Britney Spears, too lost their blue checkmarks.</p>

<p>Accounts with blue ticks belong to the persons who have paid for it by subscribing to Twitter Blue.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Elon Musk announces Twitter blue tick shake-up</strong></p>

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<p>The coveted blue check mark was previously reserved for verified accounts of politicians, famous personalities, journalists and other public figures. But soon after Elon Musk took over as Twitter owner last November, a paid monthly subscription model, open to all, was rolled out.</p>

<h2><strong>Twitter legacy checkmark removal: What is means?</strong></h2>

<p>For Twitter, this is expected to result in more people subscribing to Twitter Blue, and thus the increased revenues. But for platform's global 'town square' credentials the change threatens to create greater risk of impersonation of users of importance over the veracity of information on the platform.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Twitter removed legacy verified blue ticks from all accounts on Thursday, April 20. From now on, only the accounts subscribed to paid Twitter Blue verification service would have blue ticks on the micro-blogging platform, widely described as "town square" of modern world.

Twitter removed legacy verified blue ticks from all accounts on Thursday, April 20. From now on, only the accounts subscribed to paid Twitter Blue verification service would have blue ticks on the micro-blogging platform, widely described as "town square" of modern world. The company initially announced plans to remove the legacy blue ticks on April 1, but the change applied to select accounts. Last week, Musk tweeted that the "final date for removing legacy Blue checks is 4/20," a date with special resonance to the billionaire entrepreneur given its meaning to marijuana enthusiasts. ALSO READ | Musk defends Twitter’s paid blue tick, says social media sites without such model ‘will fail’ Immediately following the disappearance of legacy blue checks, some users began tweeting that they planned to leave the site. Numerous high profile accounts, including Pope Francis, Bill Gates, former US president Donald Trump, Kim Kardashian, Lady Gaga and more lost their blue verification checkmark. However, Barack Obama, who has the most followers after Musk with 132.8 million retained his. This is because Obama's account is affiliated to the Barack and Michelle Obama office. Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Taylor Swift, Ellen DeGeneres, and Britney Spears, too lost their blue checkmarks. Accounts with blue ticks belong to the persons who have paid for it by subscribing to Twitter Blue. ALSO WATCH | Elon Musk announces Twitter blue tick shake-up × The coveted blue check mark was previously reserved for verified accounts of politicians, famous personalities, journalists and other public figures. But soon after Elon Musk took over as Twitter owner last November, a paid monthly subscription model, open to all, was rolled out. Twitter legacy checkmark removal: What is means? For Twitter, this is expected to result in more people subscribing to Twitter Blue, and thus the increased revenues. But for platform's global 'town square' credentials the change threatens to create greater risk of impersonation of users of importance over the veracity of information on the platform. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Twitter removes legacy verified blue ticks from all accounts

In Pictures | When Elon Musk's Starship dream exploded into 'successful failure'

<p>Elon Musk was not very 'particulate' about the success of the mission, and a Texas city is bearing the fallout. Port Isabel, a Texas city, is bearing the fallout of the billionaire's Starship rocket launch. The SpaceX which took to the skies on Monday, before subsequently exploding, has reportedly coated the Texan city with sand dust. Not only this, as per a report by the Independent, the launch was staged in the middle of a "one-of-its-kind preserve for migratory sea birds."</p>

<p>The city is around eight kilometres or nearly five miles away from the launch site, but the distance really didn't matter in this case. Cars, homes and roads were all reportedly left covered in a&nbsp;layer of dust after the blast-off.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-moment-when-spacexs-starship-rocket-exploded-after-liftoff-584670">WATCH | Moment when SpaceX's Starship rocket exploded after liftoff</a></strong></p>

<p>Pictures posted by residents on social media websites show Starship "particulates" covering their possessions.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Getting reports from multiple people now of “particulates” raining down in areas of Port Isabel after the nearby explosion of the SpaceX rocket stack Starship/Superheavy, 4 minutes after liftoff this morning from Boca Chica in the Rio Grande Valley. <a href="https://t.co/Vb9ritd7JE">pic.twitter.com/Vb9ritd7JE</a></p>
— Pablo De La Rosa (@pblodlr) <a href="https://twitter.com/pblodlr/status/1649059706218991617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">So rad! Or, rather, RUD. Still a huge win for SpaceX, can't wait for the next one. Btw, we got peed on by Starship about 10m after launch with a bunch of mud/dust. <a href="https://t.co/gW0PfM2RqO">pic.twitter.com/gW0PfM2RqO</a></p>
— Jared Fuller (@BarkEaterBear) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarkEaterBear/status/1649070685514334217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The dust cloud was something else during the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StarshipLaunch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StarshipLaunch</a></p>
— Epic Genius - Online Classes and Essays Expert (@writerelly) <a href="https://twitter.com/writerelly/status/1649047460864745472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Dust of death are over us</p>
— Doris Wagner (@DorisWagner1) <a href="https://twitter.com/DorisWagner1/status/1649361902496104448?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The city too has confirmed the reports. "Cameron County Emergency Management Division has confirmed that the dust that fell this morning in Port Isabel was sand and soil from near the Space X launch site that was lofted into the air by the force of lift-off," the city confirmed, as per Business Insider.</p>

<p>Speaking to the publication, a representative of the Derry Elementry School, Port Isabel said people's vehicles were covered with ash.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-loses-billions-in-net-worth-after-starship-explosion-teslas-underperformance-584620">Elon Musk loses billions in net worth after Starship explosion, Tesla's underperformance</a></strong></p>

<p>"When the rocket launched, after it exploded, all the vehicles got a whole bunch of ash on them. Inside the school, we didn't get anything. It was just the outside."</p>

<p>As per Christopher Hooks, an Austin-based journalist, the launch impacted a preserve for migratory sea birds.</p>

<p>"SpaceX elected to build this launch site in the middle of a one-of-its-kind preserve for migratory sea birds, some of which travel thousands of miles to lay eggs there," he said on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">SpaceX elected to build this launch site in the middle of a one-of-its-kind preserve for migratory sea birds, some of which travel thousands of miles to lay eggs there <a href="https://t.co/fA3u7gEehp">https://t.co/fA3u7gEehp</a></p>
— Christopher Hooks (@cd_hooks) <a href="https://twitter.com/cd_hooks/status/1649063296908029954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The highly anticipated launch ended in failure after just minutes into its launch from the Gulf Coast Starbase facility in South Texas. As per reports, Starship reached a peak altitude of nearly 32 kilometres before the explosion. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Elon Musk was not very 'particulate' about the success of the mission, and a Texas city is bearing the fallout. Port Isabel, a Texas city, is bearing the fallout of the billionaire's Starship rocket launch.

Elon Musk was not very 'particulate' about the success of the mission, and a Texas city is bearing the fallout. Port Isabel, a Texas city, is bearing the fallout of the billionaire's Starship rocket launch. The SpaceX which took to the skies on Monday, before subsequently exploding, has reportedly coated the Texan city with sand dust. Not only this, as per a report by the Independent, the launch was staged in the middle of a "one-of-its-kind preserve for migratory sea birds." The city is around eight kilometres or nearly five miles away from the launch site, but the distance really didn't matter in this case. Cars, homes and roads were all reportedly left covered in a layer of dust after the blast-off. Also read | WATCH | Moment when SpaceX's Starship rocket exploded after liftoff Pictures posted by residents on social media websites show Starship "particulates" covering their possessions. Getting reports from multiple people now of “particulates” raining down in areas of Port Isabel after the nearby explosion of the SpaceX rocket stack Starship/Superheavy, 4 minutes after liftoff this morning from Boca Chica in the Rio Grande Valley. pic.twitter.com/Vb9ritd7JE — Pablo De La Rosa (@pblodlr) April 20, 2023 × So rad! Or, rather, RUD. Still a huge win for SpaceX, can't wait for the next one. Btw, we got peed on by Starship about 10m after launch with a bunch of mud/dust. pic.twitter.com/gW0PfM2RqO — Jared Fuller (@BarkEaterBear) April 20, 2023 × The dust cloud was something else during the #StarshipLaunch — Epic Genius - Online Classes and Essays Expert (@writerelly) April 20, 2023 × The Dust of death are over us — Doris Wagner (@DorisWagner1) April 21, 2023 × The city too has confirmed the reports. "Cameron County Emergency Management Division has confirmed that the dust that fell this morning in Port Isabel was sand and soil from near the Space X launch site that was lofted into the air by the force of lift-off," the city confirmed, as per Business Insider. Speaking to the publication, a representative of the Derry Elementry School, Port Isabel said people's vehicles were covered with ash. Also read | Elon Musk loses billions in net worth after Starship explosion, Tesla's underperformance "When the rocket launched, after it exploded, all the vehicles got a whole bunch of ash on them. Inside the school, we didn't get anything. It was just the outside." As per Christopher Hooks, an Austin-based journalist, the launch impacted a preserve for migratory sea birds. "SpaceX elected to build this launch site in the middle of a one-of-its-kind preserve for migratory sea birds, some of which travel thousands of miles to lay eggs there," he said on Twitter. SpaceX elected to build this launch site in the middle of a one-of-its-kind preserve for migratory sea birds, some of which travel thousands of miles to lay eggs there https://t.co/fA3u7gEehp — Christopher Hooks (@cd_hooks) April 20, 2023 × The highly anticipated launch ended in failure after just minutes into its launch from the Gulf Coast Starbase facility in South Texas. As per reports, Starship reached a peak altitude of nearly 32 kilometres before the explosion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Musk leaves a mess...Texans try to deal with 'fallout' of failed SpaceX rocket Starship

Shares of electric vehicle maker Tesla are down more than 4%. The company's net income fell more than 24% year-on-year after Elon Musk said the company would prioritise volume growth over profits during recessionary times.

Tesla records 24% drop in net income

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