Social media platform X, formerly Twitter, now officially allows pornographic content on its platform under its updated policy.
“Sexual expression, whether visual or written, can be a legitimate form of artistic expression,” the platform stated. “We believe in the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content that reflects their own beliefs, desires, and experiences, including those related to sexuality.”
Under its formalized policy, X will allow sexual content that is AI generated, photographic or animated. It defines “adult content” as any depictions of “full or partial nudity, including close-ups of genitals, buttocks, or breasts.” Explicit or implied sexual behavior or simulated acts like sexual intercourse are also considered adult content.
The platform has emphasized that this content can be published so long as it is “properly labeled and not prominently displayed.” With that in mind, it has prevented adult content from being used for profile pictures, banners and other publicly visible places. It will also continue to prohibit pornographic content that is exploitative, nonconsensual or promotes objectification, obscene behaviors and the harm or sexualization of minors.
However, this official change will be age-regulated. Users who regularly post adult content are asked to place their media behind a content warning, which the platform will enforce if they fail to do so. Users who are under 18 or those who do not indicate their age on their profile will not be allowed to click to view the marked content.
Historically, X rarely prevented people from posting adult content on the platform, including sex workers who use subscription services such as OnlyFans to promote their work. However, the officialization of their policy appears to be the result of the platform courting people, including creators and artists, who have been excluded by other social media platforms with stricter guidelines about sexual content.
X has also officially implemented similar rules for violent content including violent speech or media which threatens, glorifies and incites desire for harm. This has sparked a mixed reaction on social media, with many terming it provocative and dangerous.
