Fact Check: Twitter is dying and losing users

Fact Check: "Twitter is dying and losing users"

What We Know

Twitter, now rebranded as X, has been experiencing a significant decline in user engagement and revenue since Elon Musk's acquisition in late 2022. According to Business of Apps, Twitter generated $2.5 billion in revenue in 2024, marking a 13.7% decline from the previous year. The platform has also lost approximately 33 million monthly active users, dropping to 388 million in 2024. This decline is notable as it follows a peak of 368.4 million users in 2022, indicating a downward trend in user retention (Blaze).

In addition to the overall user decline, advertising revenue—a critical component of Twitter's income—has plummeted by more than 50% since Musk's takeover, as advertisers have left the platform due to concerns over content moderation and brand safety (Business of Apps). Furthermore, reports indicate that the daily active user base has also decreased, with estimates suggesting a drop from 140 million to 121 million (Slate Magazine).

Analysis

The claim that "Twitter is dying and losing users" is supported by various statistics and reports that highlight the platform's struggles. The loss of over 33 million users and a significant drop in advertising revenue are compelling indicators of a platform in decline. The shift in user engagement is further emphasized by the fact that many users have reported feeling that Twitter has lost its relevance as a primary source for news and discussion (Noahpinion).

However, it is important to evaluate the reliability of the sources. Business of Apps is a reputable source for app statistics, while Slate Magazine provides analysis based on user data from Apptopia, a credible app analytics firm. On the other hand, some sources like Blaze and eMarketer provide projections and estimates, which can vary in accuracy depending on the methodologies used.

The context surrounding these statistics is also crucial. Since Musk's acquisition, there has been a notable shift in the platform's policies, including the introduction of subscription models and the unbanning of previously banned accounts. These changes have contributed to a tumultuous environment that may have alienated some users while attracting others. Nevertheless, the overall trend appears to be one of decline, as evidenced by the statistics.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that "Twitter is dying and losing users" is substantiated by a significant decline in both user numbers and revenue. The platform's struggles under new management, coupled with a changing landscape of social media usage, support the assertion that Twitter is indeed facing serious challenges.

Fact Check: Twitter is dying and losing users