Title: X Replaces Famous Twitter Bird Logo as Elon Musk Continues Platform Rebrand
Subtitle: Business Analysts Express Concerns Over Risky Move
Los Angeles, July 24, 2023 – X, formerly known as Twitter, has officially retired its iconic blue and white bird logo in favor of a new symbol, the letter “X.” The transition marks the latest phase of a comprehensive rebrand initiated by Elon Musk, the platform’s owner and well-known entrepreneur.
The change was first announced by Musk earlier this month and has since been implemented across various platforms. The mobile app’s icon now prominently displays the letter “X,” while the web domain X.com has been introduced. However, Twitter.com remains active.
Musk, who acquired Twitter for a staggering $44 billion last year, revealed his intentions to bid farewell to the Twitter brand entirely. He plans to gradually remove all bird-related imagery, aligning with his vision to transform the platform into an all-encompassing “everything app.”
In a recent post, Musk shared a video showcasing a large, glowing X logo atop the company’s headquarters. However, this move has drawn controversy, as city officials in San Francisco have initiated an investigation into alleged installation without proper approval. The Department of Building Inspection has filed two complaints against X, citing concerns about the structure’s safety and the lack of a permit.
San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection and X have yet to respond to CNBC’s request for comment regarding the investigation.
Elon Musk’s fascination with the letter “X” is not exclusive to Twitter. His rocket manufacturing company, SpaceX, also features an X in its logo. Additionally, Musk recently launched xAI, an artificial intelligence startup aimed at uncovering the true nature of the universe.
While Musk’s rebranding efforts have excited some, business analysts consider the decision to replace Twitter’s recognizable bird logo as a risky move. The platform has already faced challenges retaining advertisers, with some expressing concerns over the site’s perceived lack of brand safety.
In an attempt to address these concerns, Musk recently appointed Linda Yaccarino, a former NBCUniversal advertising executive, as CEO. Yaccarino’s appointment is seen as part of Musk’s strategy to reassure advertisers and strengthen the platform’s advertising appeal.
Yaccarino expressed her optimism for X in an email to employees, stating that the company plans to develop innovative experiences in video, audio, messaging, banking, and payments to “delight” users. She emphasized her commitment, alongside Musk, to keep the entire community informed and engaged.
As X embarks on its bold rebranding journey, only time will tell if the transition away from the familiar blue bird will prove successful in revitalizing the platform and attracting advertisers.
Disclosure: NBCUniversal is the parent company of CNBC.