In an announcement Friday by CEO Elon Musk, social media company X, formerly known as Twitter, is set to eliminate its user-blocking feature. This decision marks another big shift in the evolution of the company, which Musk acquired last year, generating a wave of discussion and debate.

The block function on X currently empowers users to limit specific accounts from reaching out to them, viewing their posts, or following their activities. Musk, in a post on the platform, clarified that the block feature, except for Direct Messages (DMs), will be phased out.

This alteration, however, will not affect the mute function, a tool that enables users to filter content from designated accounts. Unlike blocking, muting does not alert the other account holder of this action.

Musk has positioned himself as a staunch advocate for free speech directing the platform to reduce censorship. This has sparked huge debate, with some critics suggesting this approach lacks responsibility.

This decision to remove or curtail the block feature may potentially lead to conflicts with guidelines established by Apple’s App Store and Google Play, owned by Alphabet.

Apple mandates that apps featuring user-generated content must incorporate mechanisms to block abusive users. Google Play Store, on the other hand, stipulates that apps should furnish an in-app system to prevent user-generated content and users.

At the time of this report, X, Google, and Apple have yet to respond to Reuter’s requests for commentary regarding this development.

Monica Lewinsky, a well-known anti-bullying activist, took to the platform to advocate for retaining the block feature as a “critical tool to keep people safe online.”

In response, Chief Executive Linda Yaccarino voiced support for Musk’s decision and emphasized the company’s commitment to user safety.

“Our users’ safety on X is our number one priority. And we’re building something better than the current state of block and mute. Please keep the feedback coming,” Yaccarino posted.

Lewinsky is not he only one expressing concerns.

It remains to be seen what the alternative to the block feature will be or if Musk will change his mind about the discontinuing it based on user pushback.