'They look ugly': Elon Musk urges X users to stop using hashtags as 'system doesn¡¯t need them anymore'

Elon Musk, CEO of X (previously Twitter), has condemned the use of hashtags on the network, calling them superfluous and visually unappealing. Musk's tweet was in response to a debate started by an X user who gave hashtag insights based on input from "Grok," the platform's AI tool. Musk wrote, "Please stop using hashtags." and informed that they are no longer required by the system and are unappealing.

Elon Musk asks people to stop using X

Please stop using hashtags. The system doesn¡¯t need them anymore and they look ugly. https://t.co/GKEp1v1wiB

¡ª Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 17, 2024

Musk's tweet received a flood of diverse replies in the comments section. One user jokingly asked, "Don't use them unless they hurt. Please, Mr Musk, may I continue to use #TwoTierKeir? I hear he dislikes it?!? It's a shame, since Keir Starmer is the master of rhyming slang, and it's gorgeous to witness!"

The use of hashtags on X, previously known as Twitter, has stirred passionate discussion. While some maintain that hashtags are still an effective technique for enhancing discoverability and fostering community involvement, others contend that they have become obsolete and even harmful to a post's reach.

Grok says this about using hashtags on X

Credit: Grok Screengrab

We asked Grok if we should use hashtags, and this is what the AI assistant answered:

The use of hashtags on X has been a topic of considerable debate, especially in light of recent changes to the platform's algorithms and user behaviour.

While hashtags still have a place on X for specific contexts, their overall impact on reach and engagement seems to be waning. It's suggested to use them judiciously, focusing more on the quality of content and direct engagement with your audience.

For those looking to increase visibility, consider alternative strategies like creating compelling content, engaging with followers, and utilizing other features of X like Spaces or Communities, where applicable. Notably, Musk reshared a response ascribed to Grok, a smart AI chatbot created by xAI, a startup founded by Elon Musk.

Also read: ¡®This is false¡¯: Elon Musk reacts after Indian Army recovers Starlink-like devices from insurgents in Manipur

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