Twitter has confirmed it is exploring adding a new ‘Super Follows’ feature to let users get paid for exclusive Tweets and content. The idea Twitter is looking at expanding its revenue options through new features is not new, but the latest announcement seems like one of the more firmer indications of where the micro-blogging platforming might be heading in the future.
One of the more common revenue-generated headlines that Twitter has repeatedly been linked with recently is subscriptions. This is only in terms of reports, but officially, considering the company had previously confirmed it was looking at subscriptions as an option. However, it remained unclear whether these subscriptions would be for new premium features that were especially designed for subscribers, or whether existing features would suddenly require a monthly payment, such as TweetDeck.
Today, Twitter held an investor relations event where it provided more information on some of the paths it is currently exploring. Once again, subscriptions were mentioned and TweetDeck was again suggested as a possibility. However, what was more notable was the confirmation that Twitter is looking at a new Super Follows feature that lets its users charge for Tweets and other content. For example, while features like TweetDeck might require a subscription to Twitter, Super Follows will offer the option to subscribe to other Twitter users.
How Super Tweets Would Work
Along with confirming the feature is being explored, Twitter provided some images that pretty much detail how Super Follows will work if it becomes available. In the example above, Twitter users will be able to add the Super Follow feature to their account and others would then be able to tap on the button and subscribe. While the exact fee will likely be determined by the individual account, the example points to a $4.99 per month cost. In return for this fee, the hypothetical super follower would gain exclusive content, deals, and subscriber-only newsletters, as well as access to an exclusive community and a supporter badge for their account. The exclusive content is specifically worth noting, as this would include actual Tweets that can only be seen (and replied to) by super followers.
Again, this is only one of the methods that were touched on during Twitter’s investors day and the company was cautious of actually announcing them as features that are definitely coming to the platform. Due to this, it remains to be seen when or even if Super Follow will become available, let alone who will be eligible. However, if Twitter does add Super Follows, then it seems highly likely the feature will work along the lines mentioned above.
Source: Twitter