X is overhauling its creator monetization system, introducing a new Original Content Rewards Program on September 8 as the platform moves to tackle copied posts, recycled content, and accounts built primarily to generate impressions.
The new programme will replace X’s existing Creator Revenue Sharing scheme, which has operated since July 2023. The current programme will end on September 7, with the first payout under the new system scheduled for September 25.
X says the new model is designed to reward creators who contribute original ideas, expertise, information, creativity and commentary, rather than accounts that simply repost or copy content from other users.
The changes come after growing concerns that the previous monetization system encouraged low-quality behaviour, including accounts that copied popular posts in an effort to generate engagement and increase payouts. Such accounts have been described as “impression zombies” because of their focus on generating large volumes of views rather than meaningful content.
Under the new system, X is also introducing stricter eligibility requirements. Creators will need at least 500 verified followers and 500,000 impressions from verified users over the previous 90 days to qualify.
The platform will also change how impressions are counted for monetization. Payments will be based on unique impressions generated by users subscribed to X Premium, Premium Plus or Premium Business, provided at least half of the post is visible on the user’s home timeline.
Repeated views from the same account, paid promotional impressions and artificially generated impressions will not count toward creator payouts.
The overhaul signals a shift in X’s approach to creator monetization, with the platform placing greater emphasis on the quality and originality of content rather than simply the volume of engagement it generates.
For creators, the changes could make originality, expertise, and meaningful audience engagement increasingly important factors in turning activity on X into a source of income.
