After discussing it for over a year, X is set to dilute its account blocking functionality by removing the block button from various locations within the app.

BREAKING: X will soon eliminate the current block button, meaning blocked users will still be able to see posts from public accounts!

— Nima Owji (@nima_owji) September 23, 2024

As highlighted by app researcher Nima Owji, while users can still block accounts from their profiles, those who are blocked will still have access to public posts. To fully restrict visibility, users will need to post privately or limit their audience to followers only.

The rationale behind this change is that anyone, whether blocked or not, can still view public posts by logging in through another account or using an incognito window, diminishing the perceived value of the blocking feature.

However, blocking is crucial as it prevents blocked users from automatically seeing updates in their feeds, serving as a valuable deterrent against harassment and abuse. This option is particularly important for users who have faced such negative interactions, as it makes it harder for blocked individuals to access their public updates.

Both the App Store and Google Play Store require a blocking option, raising concerns that X’s efforts to diminish this functionality could violate these guidelines.

Elon Musk believes that blocking creates a negative element, as extensive block lists restrict the reach of posts, impacting visibility within the app.

“The giant block lists are problematic. They mess up the recommendation system & create a DDoS vector,” Musk stated back in February 2023.

While it’s unclear how block lists could lead to a DDoS vector, Musk's motivation appears to stem from a desire to enhance post visibility by minimizing blocking features. He has confirmed that blocking will still exist, but it will be less accessible.

This shift raises potential concerns and could lead to more issues than it resolves. Nevertheless, Musk is determined to proceed cautiously while adhering to app store requirements.