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Twitter, a Friend or a Bully?

In an open letter published on Medium, tech investor and entrepreneur @msuster expresses his disappointment with Twitter's decision to shut down UberTwitter, a popular mobile client for Blackberry devices. He argues that Twitter's actions are detrimental to its users and urges the platform to play nicer.

• He emphasizes that he is not an investor in UberMedia, the company behind UberTwitter, nor is he privy to any internal information at Twitter. He simply wants to see Twitter succeed and believes that shutting down UberTwitter is not the way to achieve that.
• He expresses his love for Twitter, highlighting its role in social uprisings and democratic movements. He also acknowledges its popularity and influence as a social and business networking platform.
• However, he criticizes Twitter's behavior, comparing it to the very regimes it helps depose. He argues that Twitter's actions are reminiscent of bullies, citing the platform's decision to shut down UberTwitter without proper warning.

UberTwitter's Demise and Twitter's Strategy

Msuster highlights his reliance on UberTwitter as the best mobile client available for Blackberry devices. He argues that Twitter's decision to shut down the client, despite its popularity, comes across as arbitrary and detrimental to users.

• He points out the irony of Twitter launching a promoted tweet promoting its own mobile client on the same day it shuts down UberTwitter. This, he suggests, raises questions about transparency and fairness in Twitter's decision-making process.
• He questions Twitter's reasoning for shutting down UberTwitter, claiming that it was done under the guise of policy and security violations, while in reality, it may be a move to eliminate potential competition.
• He advises Twitter to adopt a more transparent approach, giving users ample warning before shutting down services. He suggests that Twitter should also focus on creating a better mobile client to win the user experience battle.

The Public's Perspective and Twitter's Future

Msuster believes that his public critique reflects the sentiments of many within Twitter's ecosystem. He asserts that the decision to shut down UberTwitter has left users feeling uneasy and apprehensive about their own future on the platform.

• He highlights the importance of civil discourse and fair fights, emphasizing that Twitter, despite its power, should strive for a more equitable and transparent approach in its interactions with users and developers.
• He suggests that Twitter's actions, particularly the abrupt shutdown of UberTwitter, could have a negative impact on its long-term sustainability and user loyalty. He emphasizes that while Twitter is currently the dominant social media platform, its position is not guaranteed and that it needs to actively cultivate a more positive relationship with its users.
• He concludes the letter by expressing his love for Twitter and reiterating his desire for its continued success. He urges the platform to learn from this experience and strive for a more user-centric approach in its decision-making.

Bill Gross, UberMedia, and Twitter's Mobile Client Strategy

In his letter, Msuster mentions Bill Gross, the founder of Idealab, and suggests that Twitter's actions may have been influenced by a desire to eliminate competition from UberMedia, the company behind UberTwitter.

• He points out that he is not an investor in UberMedia, suggesting that his criticism of Twitter's actions is not driven by any personal investment interest. He emphasizes his concern for the well-being of Twitter and its users.
• The mention of Bill Gross, a prominent figure in the tech industry, adds credibility to Msuster's critique and suggests that his concerns about Twitter's actions are not isolated.
• The debate surrounding UberTwitter's shutdown highlights a broader issue within the tech industry: the balance between platform control and user experience. Twitter's actions have raised questions about its commitment to providing a platform that fosters innovation and user choice.

Twitter, Social Media, and the Importance of User Experience

Msuster's letter provides valuable insights into the dynamics of the social media landscape and the importance of user experience in building and maintaining successful platforms.

• He argues that Twitter's decision to shut down UberTwitter, a popular mobile client for Blackberry devices, sends a negative message to its users. He suggests that this move could undermine user trust and loyalty, ultimately harming Twitter's long-term prospects.
• He emphasizes the importance of transparency and fairness in social media platforms' interactions with users and developers. He argues that platforms should avoid acting like bullies and instead strive for open and respectful communication with their communities.
• He highlights the importance of a positive user experience in attracting and retaining users. He suggests that platforms should prioritize user needs and preferences over short-term strategic gains.