Twitter Removes Headlines from External Links, Sparking Concerns Over Traffic and Misinformation

X has removed headlines from links to external sites, including news articles. This deprives readers of context and could reduce traffic to other sites.

The change is part of a wider push by X to discourage clicks on external links. Musk claims it's for aesthetic reasons.

Experts say removing headlines could undermine news organizations' reach and reduce engagement on X itself.

It contrasts with X's previous model of verifying news sites to shore up trust. Musk has long viewed news media as competitors.

The change comes amid rollbacks of misinformation policies, welcomed banned accounts back, and triggered an increase in harassment on X.