The iconic blue bird logo of Twitter has disappeared, and the 17-year-old social media platform has undergone a rebranding, now being referred to as “X.”
Welcome to X. Now this is how you do a rebranding: pic.twitter.com/yCiN4hywrx
— Fail Whale (@leederca) July 24, 2023
On July 24, Elon Musk, the billionaire behind SpaceX and Tesla who acquired Twitter last year for over $40 billion, unveiled the new “X” identity after teasing its arrival through several tweets over the weekend. The revamped Twitter has introduced a few changes so far: the desktop site now features an “X” logo, and visiting X.com will redirect users to Twitter’s site. Additionally, the company’s San Francisco headquarters now displays a projection of the new logo. However, the main @Twitter handle has not been changed yet. Musk has stated that tweets will eventually be referred to as “Xs.”
X is here! Let’s do this. pic.twitter.com/1VqEPlLchj
— Linda Yaccarino (@lindayacc) July 24, 2023
Since acquiring Twitter, Musk has been implementing various changes. On July 23, he announced the farewell to the Twitter brand and hinted at moving away from bird-related elements. He also invited users to submit their “X” logo designs for a chance to be chosen.
The selected basic “X” logo has sparked a stir, with some users making fun of its simplicity and suggesting alternative ideas. One concept incorporates the iconic Twitter bird logo with an “X” added to it. Musk’s choice of “X” appears to align with his affinity for the letter, considering his involvement in projects like X.com, SpaceX, X.AI, and naming one of his children X Æ A-Xii. Linda Yaccarino, the CEO of Twitter, expressed excitement about the transformation and the platform’s potential to deliver various content.
Returning to Barbieland to find the Dreamhouse has become the Mojo Dojo Casa House. https://t.co/O0RL0qUcQm
— Lillian Crawford (@lillcrawf) July 23, 2023
However, not all users are welcoming the change. Many have voiced confusion and criticism on Twitter (now known as “X”). Some users humorously likened the experience to returning to a less desirable location, such as “Ken’s Mojo Dojo Casa House” compared to Barbie’s dream house. Others have highlighted the significance of the original Twitter name and logo, emphasizing its association with tweeting like little birds. Even other companies, like the U.K.’s Channel 4, have pointed out the challenges of rebranding, citing the continued use of the old name “4OD” for their streaming service.
Musk remains unfazed by the criticism and has even expressed appreciation for negative feedback on the platform, finding it preferable to strict censorship.
