Twitter has a new feature to help creators get paid for content and the social media network has teased more upgrades in the future.
No Cuts For Twitter Just Yet
Twitter's Tip Jar appears as a dollar bill icon next to a creator's username. Users who want to send money to their favorite creators can tap the icon for payment options.
In a blog post, the company said Tip Jar "is a first step in our work to create new ways for people to receive and show support on Twitter."
The feature will be available for use for English Android and iOS users but only some such as nonprofits, creators and journalists can add the Tip Jar to their profiles now.
Twitter users can choose from the following payment options: PayPal, Cash App, Patreon, Venmo, and Bandcamp.
The social media company said there was "more coming soon" as it explores different solutions for users to get support from their fans and followers.
Potential Roadblock Ahead?
Twitter is abuzz as more users are excited over the new feature. However, there could be several issues the social media network will meet as it tests the feature.
Privacy is one of the main topics.
When sending tips through PayPal, whoever is sending money can see the recipient's address, which is a serious security red flag that Twitter will have to work out.
Twitter has said it is working on an update on the "tipping prompt" to send a clearer message about other apps' terms allowing for some information to be shared between receivers and senders.
Users React To New Feature
Since the Tip Jar was announced, some users have expressed mixed reactions.
Author and former editor of The Guardian, Charles Arthur, wrote that the "scheme" appears that "it could lead to some desperate behavior."
In today’s @theoverspill: Twitter is introducing a "tip jar" scheme - which feels like it could lead to some desperate behaviour https://t.co/XiFxIn1c6u — Charles Arthur (@charlesarthur) May 7, 2021
User @omedon666 said the Tip Jar further gives light to the idea that the social media platform is not a place where people can "make friends." Japanese Melee Yoshi player, aMSa, tweeted that the new feature "looks interesting," while user @ziloow_ said the Tip Jar will "make people even more motivated to steal content from small accounts."
#TipJar will make people even more motivated to steal content from small accounts pic.twitter.com/OM7Ujn4Pdf — Rising Sun® (@ziloow_) May 7, 2021
The new feature's unveiling came ahead of the Super Follow reveal. The feature will allow users to pay $4.99 per month to get exclusive content and community access to their favorite creators.
