X introduces “exclusive threads” in latest push to attract creators

X has introduced an “exclusive threads” feature that lets creators place sections of conversations behind a paywall, the latest in a string of moves aimed at helping creators earn directly from their audiences.

The tool forms part of Creator Subscriptions 2.0, an updated set of monetisation tools built around the platform’s subscriptions product. 

Under the feature, creators can publish the opening post of a thread publicly before reserving the rest of the conversation for subscribers. Followers can then subscribe directly from the thread itself rather than being directed to an external site or newsletter.

“The Timeline is the most powerful distribution channel in the world,” X said in its announcement. “Creators can share value upfront in the parent post, then reserve the rest of the conversation for subscribers.”

X said the format is designed to maximise both reach and conversion by allowing creators to distribute the first post widely, while rewarding paying followers with deeper content further down the thread.

“We are doubling down on creators, the platform’s most influential experts, thought leaders and voices, by investing in tools that enable sustainable incomes and deeper connections with their audiences,” said Allegra Jacchia, creator product lead at X.

The update also includes a refreshed subscriptions paywall, a shareable subscriptions promotion card, and a new subscriptions dashboard offering improved earnings visibility and subscriber insights.

Subscriber-only posts will now also appear in creators’ main profile feeds, rather than being hidden in a separate subscriptions tab.

The move follows X’s recent introduction of paid partnership labels and stricter rules around undisclosed AI-generated content. As previously reported by The Daily Influence, platform leaders signalled earlier this year that attracting and retaining creators would be a central priority for 2026.

X first introduced creator subscriptions in 2023 as part of a broader shift toward encouraging users to monetise original content directly on the platform.

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