Why X is betting on Bitcoin voices to fix its new-user problem

ambcryptoPublished on 2026-01-22Last updated on 2026-01-22

Abstract

X is addressing the new-user cold-start problem by introducing algorithm-driven "Starterpacks"—curated lists of influential accounts across topics like crypto, politics, and culture. This feature aims to provide personalized feeds immediately after sign-up, reducing early user drop-off. The initiative, led by Head of Product Nikita Bier, currently includes around 1,000 such packs, with plans to expand to 3,000. The announcement coincides with a tense crypto market climate, where Bitcoin briefly dipped amid geopolitical concerns but showed quick recovery. While X’s tool may aid user engagement, external factors like global policy continue to significantly influence market sentiment.

For a long time, microblogging platforms have struggled with the same problem. New users sign up, see an empty timeline, feel lost, and leave.

Bluesky recently solved this by using community-made “Starterpacks,” and now Elon Musk’s X is stepping in with its solution.

To keep new users engaged, X is working on an algorithm-based discovery feature.

Bitcoin X brings structure to crypto Twitter

According to X’s Head of Product, Nikita Bier, the company has spent months mapping out influential accounts across different topics and regions.

These include top voices in areas like crypto, politics, culture, and more.

This is more than a simple design update.

X wants to make joining the platform easier by showing new users ready-made groups of accounts to follow.

Instead of searching on their own, users will get a personalized feed right away.

Bier said,

“We’ve compiled them into a new tool called Starterpacks: to help new users find the best accounts—big or small—for their interests.”

He added,

“We have around 1000 today and we’re hoping to grow it to 3000 in the next few months.”

Market sentiment

This comes at a time when market data shows mixed signals. While many investors are feeling positive about Bitcoin, as per crypto sentiment data.

The overall fear has risen sharply. As per CoinMarketCap data, the Fear and Greed Index has dropped to 34, which signals fear in the market.

However, this worry is not coming from problems inside crypto itself, but from global politics.

A recent tariff announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at European allies raised concerns about a possible trade war, which pushed Bitcoin prices lower for a short time.

But, at press time, Bitcoin is showing signs of quick recovery, climbing back above $90,000, but this did not come from a technical upgrade or crypto news.

For investors, X’s new tools can help navigate online influence, but understanding global policy remains far more important.

Final Thoughts

  • X is trying to solve the long-standing cold-start problem by guiding new users toward influential voices from the moment they join.
  • Crypto receives special attention, with founders and Bitcoin supporters grouped into high-visibility lists.

Related Questions

QWhat problem is X trying to solve with its new 'Starterpacks' feature?

AX is trying to solve the 'cold-start' problem, where new users sign up, see an empty timeline, feel lost, and leave the platform.

QWho is Nikita Bier and what did he reveal about the project?

ANikita Bier is X's Head of Product. He revealed that the company has spent months mapping influential accounts and has compiled them into a new tool called 'Starterpacks,' with a goal of growing the number of these packs from 1,000 to 3,000.

QAccording to the article, what external factor caused a recent short-term drop in Bitcoin's price?

AA recent tariff announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at European allies raised concerns about a possible trade war, which pushed Bitcoin prices lower for a short time.

QWhat was the value of the Fear and Greed Index mentioned in the article, and what does it signal?

AThe Fear and Greed Index had dropped to 34, which signals fear in the market.

QWhich other social platform is mentioned as having recently implemented a similar solution to the new-user problem?

ABluesky is mentioned as recently solving the new-user problem by using community-made 'Starterpacks.'

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