# X announces new rewards program for content creators The platform shifts to a payment model emphasizing original content. - **Source:** [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-08 - **Topic:** [Marketing](https://brifing.si/c/marketing) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/82769ee0-884d-4c69-b9e2-8a6be5dea2f4 ## Major overhaul in X's payment model X platform is fundamentally changing how it compensates content creators. The existing Revenue Sharing program will end in September, replaced by Original Content Rewards. New requirements include 500 verified followers and 500,000 impressions from verified users within 90 days. The platform aims to incentivize creators to produce original material, marking a significant shift in its content strategy. ## Clear definition of original content X has clarified what qualifies as original content under the new program. Original reporting, self-created photos/videos, designed memes/graphics, and substantive commentary will be eligible. However, directly copied content, re-uploads without transformation, or unmodified reposts will be rejected. These rules aim to elevate content quality across the platform while discouraging low-effort duplication practices. ## Shortcomings of the current system X executives admitted the Revenue Sharing program had created 'misaligned incentives'. Previous attempts to reduce payments to clickbait accounts in April faced backlash from beneficiaries. The company emphasizes the new program was designed from the ground up to reward originality. This move reflects lessons learned from the limitations of patching an existing system versus building a new framework. ## Transition period details Current program participants will continue receiving payments until September 7. Applications for the new program open on September 8. The Premium subscription requirement remains. X's Allegra Jacchia stated models will be refined over time with rising standards. This transition represents X's commitment to fostering higher-quality content creation while maintaining creator monetization opportunities. ## Industry parallels YouTube and TikTok have implemented similar programs rewarding original content. YouTube's Partner Program offers higher revenue share for unique creators. TikTok's Creativity Program incentivizes original videos over 1 minute long. X's move intensifies competition among social platforms to attract quality creators. This industry trend reflects growing recognition that platform sustainability depends on authentic content ecosystems. ## Implications for content creators The new system will challenge aggregator accounts and content farms while benefiting original analysts and creative producers. Experts note X must balance raising quality standards with supporting smaller, niche creators. The change aligns with X's long-term content strategy but requires careful navigation during transition. Creator adaptation will determine whether this reshapes platform dynamics effectively. ## Platform policies under Musk Since Elon Musk acquired X, the platform has undergone multiple transformations including Twitter Blue subscriptions, Community Notes, and now payment model revisions. This latest change aligns with X's vision as a 'digital public square'. However, creator adoption remains crucial. The move represents another step in X's evolution from microblogging site to multifaceted content platform with diversified revenue streams. ## Broader industry impact X's decision reflects social media's increasing emphasis on quality content. Platforms aim to increase user engagement with substantive material. Experts argue algorithmic prioritization of original content is vital for ecosystem health. X's move may pressure competitors to implement similar reforms. This shift could redefine creator economies across platforms, favoring depth over virality in content strategies. ## Sources covering this story - https://techcrunch.com/2026/08/08/x-replaces-misaligned-revenue-sharing-program-with-original-content-rewards/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._