X Shifts Payout Model to 'Original Content Rewards'
AI-generated image · US National Wire
The platform is ending its general revenue-sharing program to penalize clickbait and reward creators who produce unique material.
X is replacing its current revenue-sharing program with a new system called "Original Content Rewards," starting September 8, according to reporting from The Verge and TechCrunch. The move signals a strategic pivot away from a model that X claims had "misaligned" incentives.
Under the new guidelines, X aims to discourage the use of clickbait and the exploitation of loopholes. Allegra Jacchia, Senior Product Manager, Creators at SpaceXAI, stated on X that the program is intended to reward creators who provide unique perspectives, creativity, and expertise rather than those who "game the system." Jacchia noted that creators should prioritize bringing "net new content" to the platform over maximizing their payouts.
To qualify for the new rewards, creators must subscribe to an X Premium tier and meet specific thresholds: at least 500 verified followers and 500,000 Home Timeline impressions from verified users within the last 90 days. Payouts will be based on "qualified impressions," which The Verge defines as unique impressions from Premium subscribers where at least 50% of the post is visible on the Home Timeline feed.
X is tightening the definition of what earns money. Eligible "original content" includes original reporting, analysis, user-captured photos and videos, and creator-made graphics or memes. While commentary and reactions are permitted, they must add "meaningful original value." TechCrunch reports that content simply copied, re-uploaded, or reposted without "meaningful transformation" will not qualify.
Existing participants in the previous revenue-sharing model will continue to earn revenue through September 7, after which they can apply for the new program.