X Replaces Revenue Sharing With Original Content Rewards for Creators

By: Harsh Vardhan

|

Updated on: 11-Aug-2026 09:00 PM

5,433 views

Follow Us:

5,433 views

X, formerly known as Twitter and owned by Elon Musk, has ended its revenue sharing programme and introduced a new original content rewards system. The move aims to encourage creators to post unique content and address issues with the previous system, which some users exploited for higher payouts.

Key Highlights

• X replaces its revenue sharing programme with an original content rewards system for creators.
• Eligibility now requires 500,000 verified impressions from paid subscribers and 500 verified followers.
• Old programme participants must reapply to join the new system and meet stricter criteria.
• Indian tech creators previously earned $60 to $70 monthly, with US rates about ten times higher.
• Final payouts for the old programme are scheduled for August and September 2026.

Key Changes to Creator Monetization

The original content rewards programme replaces the old revenue sharing model after nearly three years. Under the previous system, users could earn money even if their posts were not original. The new programme restricts payouts to "qualified impressions" on original content only. This change targets users who gamified the system and aims to reward creators who provide unique ideas and perspectives.

To qualify, creators now need 500,000 verified impressions from paid X subscribers, a significant shift from the earlier requirement of 5 million profile impressions in 90 days. Impressions on replies no longer count toward eligibility. The minimum number of verified followers remains at 500, unchanged from the previous programme.

Creators who participated in the old programme must reapply, as automatic eligibility does not carry over. Some creators, like Noah Cat (@Cartidise), believe the new requirements are too high for smaller accounts. Independent tech analyst Yogesh Brar (@heyitsyogesh) estimates that the percentage of eligible creators could drop from 60–70 percent to about 10 percent.

Impact on Creators and Earnings

Many creators express concern that the new system may exclude smaller accounts with original content. Sanju Choudhury (@saaaanjjjuuu) notes that achieving 500,000 verified impressions is difficult for those with limited reach. Despite stricter rules, some experts believe users may still find ways to game the system, such as tweaking or copying content.

Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd) suggests that unless X personally identifies original creators, the changes may not have a significant effect. Choudhury adds that the platform's algorithm, rather than content quality, often determines visibility and eligibility.

Yogesh Brar shares that Indian tech creators typically earned $60 (about Rs 5,700) to $70 (about Rs 6,670) per month under the old programme. Creators in entertainment and political niches in India earned between $120 (about Rs 11,430) and $150 (about Rs 14,300) monthly. In contrast, US rates are roughly ten times higher. Noah Cat reports earning $300 (about Rs 28,600) to $700 (about Rs 66,700) per payout, with payments issued every two weeks previously.

Advice for Creators Moving Forward

Experts recommend that creators focus on producing original content and avoid engagement bait or AI-generated posts. Choudhury advises creators to prioritize quality and authenticity, while Noah Cat suggests building supportive networks and learning from established accounts. Brar warns against relying solely on X for revenue and encourages diversification through sponsorships or independent streams.

Final payouts for the old programme will occur in three phases: August 14, August 28, and a last payment for earnings through September 7, expected around September 11. The first payout under the new programme is scheduled for August 28, while newly eligible creators will receive their first payment on September 25.