Author: Bbo I XHunt Operation Team
X (formerly Twitter) is undergoing an unprecedented transformation of its content ecosystem. If you've recently felt that the recommendation logic of your Timeline has changed, it's definitely not an illusion.
Elon Musk is reshaping the traffic landscape with real money, and salaries on Twitter are rising accordingly. Twitter officially launched an exciting initiative for content creators called the "Million Dollar Article Contest," aiming to reward creators who can produce in-depth content that resonates across the entire internet. Shortly after the announcement, the platform saw the emergence of its first article to break through the view count barrier. 160 million a single article.
What does this mean? It means that Twitter is trying to transform its former "short, fast, and emotional" information square into a "deep and high-value" content platform, driven by both algorithms and incentives. For CT (Crypto Twitter) creators, the old "watered-down traffic" is becoming ineffective, while new "cognitive dividends" are just beginning to emerge.
To help you seize the initiative in the next round of traffic reshuffling, Biteye will conduct an in-depth analysis of the revenue structure of CT (Content Token), uncover the traffic secrets behind the x-algorithm open-source code, and present you with a practical guide titled "Content Monetization Handbook 2026."
I. First, let's not talk about creation: How exactly does CT make money?
Before we study "how to write," we must first understand "where the money is." Besides the official revenue sharing from X, the real goldmine for CT is actually hidden beneath the surface:
1️⃣ Official Creator Incentive Program: The most transparent, but with the lowest ceiling.
Blue label + page views are the most basic source of income.
But after the algorithm is frequently updated,The traffic generated by spamming replies and jumping on trending topics has been significantly devalued.According to Biteye's statistics, the official revenue share per month for most creators in the Chinese-speaking region typically remains atFrom several hundred to 2000 dollars.
This is a "base salary," not the main occupation.
2️⃣ Referral Commission Economy: The Most Profitable Cash Flow in CT Underwater
This is the most secretive and profitable niche in the CT (crypto trading) field. From exchange registration links to referral codes for on-chain tools, to various quantitative trading bots. A high-quality viral tutorial post can generate continuous referral commissions from its long-tail traffic, which often equals an entire year's salary for an average office worker.
3️⃣ Project Promotion / KOL Rounds: Only Recognize Genuine Influence
Commonly known as "taking commercial orders." Web3 project teams always need KOL (Key Opinion Leader) endorsements, but nowadays they are becoming increasingly discerning. They no longer focus solely on inflated follower counts, but instead require a certain ranking level on @xhunt_ai. Vertical KOLs whose data can withstand scrutiny have the power to command a premium.
For a detailed introduction to the KOL wheel, please refer to Biteye's tweet "Unveiling the KOL Wheel: A Wealth Experiment Swept by Traffic."
🔗https://x.com/BiteyeCN/status/1986748741592711374
4️⃣ Knowledge Payment / Private Domain Traffic Acquisition: The Pricing Strategies of High-Value Content Creators
Clean up the general traffic from public domains and redirect it to private domains (paid groups, newsletters, research report subscriptions). Currently, in the Chinese-speaking market, the annual fees for mainstream alpha groups are generally a few hundred U.S. dollars, with core VIP tiers having no upper limit, and these services have extremely high repurchase rates.
5️⃣ Token Alpha (Proprietary Trading): Highest upper limit, but also the most ruthless.
That is, by monetizing one's cognitive abilities. By leveraging information asymmetry to identify early-stage Alpha projects and participating in trading oneself. This is the income source with the highest potential but also the least stability. In this arena, some people lose everything overnight, while others achieve a breakthrough that propels them directly across social classes.
II. The Three Evolutions of Algorithms: From "Rules" to "Semantics"
X has just open-sourced its latest recommendation algorithm, xai-org/x-algorithm. This is not just an update to the code, but a paradigm shift in traffic distribution logic. For content creators, understanding the evolution of traffic distribution logic is a prerequisite for monetization:
1️⃣ Before 2023: The Era of Tag Matching
- Logic: Rule-based (SimClusters).
- Gameplay: As long as you added the #BTC #Airdrop tags, the algorithm mechanically pushed the content to interested users. "Tag-jacking" was the optimal solution at that time.
2️⃣ 2024-2025: The Era of Weighted Layering
- Logic: Increase the weight based on content type.
- Gameplay: The weights of "Blue Label" and "Original Video" have surged dramatically, while external links have been devalued. Without a membership, progress is nearly impossible. Uploading videos is more likely to go viral than posting text.
3️⃣ After 2026: The Era of Semantic Intelligence (Grok-based)
- Logic: Completely eliminate manual features, using the Grok large model for semantic understanding and predicting user behavior.
- Dual-stream architecture core:
III. Interactive No Longer Equal: What Do Algorithms Truly Value?
The new algorithm no longer simply counts how many likes you have. It predicts the probability of users taking actions. P(Action)The weight logic is as follows:
- P(dwell) Dwell Time (Highest Weight): Did the user stop to read your long article? That's more valuable than a casual like.
- P(photo_expand) Image Expansion: Did the user click on your image? This is a strong signal of interest.
- P(reply) Deep Reply: Initiating discussions is more favored by algorithms than mere forwarding.
- P(not_interested) Negative feedback (critical): Clickbait titles that mislead users into clicking, leading to quick swipes away, will cause a drastic drop in weight (ranking).
Appendix: X Open-Source Algorithm Iteration Comparison Chart
Four. Money-Making Strategies: How to Write for Maximum Profit in 2026?
Combined with the new algorithm weights, the content operation recommendations for the future will follow the following SOP:
1️⃣ Golden Theme: High Information Density + Logical Deduction
The Grok model prefers content that is logical and context-aware.
- Discard: Senseless shouting ("$BTC to the moon 🚀"), such content will be classified as low-quality noise.
- Embrace:In-depth research reports, data analysis, review and simulation.
2️⃣ Format Bonus: Long-form + Visual Presentation
Since the platform is promoting "million-dollar articles" and the algorithm prioritizes dwell time:
- Preferred format:Articles (Long-form Content) or Threads (Threaded Posts).
- Essential elements:High-quality data charts.
Appendix: Official High-Scoring Assignment Template — Four Iron Rules of Article Writing
- Title Determines Fate: Reject fatherly-style teaching. UseCounterintuitive Viewpoint + Specific NumbersReplace mediocre statements (e.g., "Why 95% of advice is useless") with an attention-grabbing cover image.
- Scan layout: Mobile-friendly. Keep paragraphs to no more than 3 lines, and use lists whenever possible.Bold, allowing users to catch the key points within three seconds.
- Speak in plain language: Talk like a casual chat with a friend, not a lecture from a teacher. Cut out 30% of the fluff after writing, and keep the conversational feel.
- Traffic Acquisition:After the article is published, extract the key points and post them as a Thread (a series of long tweets) to drive traffic and link back to the original article. Additionally, pin the article on your personal profile for 72 hours to fully capitalize on the traffic.
3️⃣ Operation Model: Personalized Elimination Matrix
- Old mode: Matrix number(Industrialized Volume)
Creating 100 accounts to post spam tweets, follow hashtags, and trick others into mutual follows -> Now, this approach will definitely fail at the start (killed instantly by deduplication and anti-spam algorithms).
- New Mode: Persona-based Large Accounts(Grok-friendly)
The algorithm now has a strong memory of author profiles. You need to make the AI remember "what this person is an expert in." Once labeled as high-value, every one of your tweets will receive preferential treatment in the initial traffic pool.
At the same time, when operating and publishing content, please focus on manufacturing. "Banger Post" is an English term and does not require translation. It is often used to refer(Thread of the Gods) as the goal.
💡 What is a "Banger Post"?
- Definition: Refers to top-tier content capable of instantly sparking engagement, and even "advancing the timeline"—the official team even launched a special initiative for this. Certified Bangers Badge.
- Money-making logic: It's Grok's favorite. Not looking at the number of followers, just looking atRealistic Interactive DepthA well-structured Banger can instantly trigger a reaction. Phoenix System (Recommended by Strangers), giving the small account hundreds of thousands of precise exposures, is the best carrier to receive high commission rebates and million-dollar rewards.
V. Market Consensus: Summary of KOL Views
To verify the impact of the new algorithm on actual operations, we have compiled the most representative cases from recent CT circles. 12 voicesThese viewpoints reveal a common trend:The "false prosperity" is collapsing, and "true value" is beginning to be priced.
1️⃣ Algorithm and Ecosystem Restructuring: Saying Goodbye to "Watered-down Meat"
- @Phyrex_Ni (XHunt Chinese #8): Invalid interactive actions for gaining followers will actually result in score deductions.
🔗 https://x.com/Phyrex_Ni/status/2010126344399794254
Citing X's official perspective, it points out that "crazy replies (e.g., 'gm') for gaining followers" is currently the biggest misconception. The algorithm has already separated exposure quotas from ineffective interactions. Meaningless spamming can actually harm your account's weight.
- @0xKingsKuan (XHunt Chinese #401): From "Quantity" to "Quality".
🔗 https://x.com/0xKingsKuan/status/2007704780945453115
- Future points and rewards will introduce thresholds based on "reputation + on-chain behavior," marking the end of the "talking without action" era. Traffic will shift toward creators with cleaner and more reliable data.
- @biquanliergou (XHunt Chinese #2694): Track Reincarnation.
- With the closure of Kaito-style "API brushing," the era of noise on InfoFi has ended. Genuine "tutoring tutorials" and high-quality commercial orders will return, as users need tutorials, not screen-filling noise.
- @punk2898 (XHunt Chinese #197): Exposing the inner workings of algorithms.
🔗https://x.com/punk2898/status/2013538743467286981
A 6000-word in-depth analysis is now available, translating open-source code into plain language. The core content reveals the traffic distribution mechanisms of the "follow feed" and the "discovery feed," as well as the algorithm's strict limitations on "author diversity." This means that the strategy of flooding the feed with content is completely ineffective. After understanding the code logic, precise and targeted content output is the key to success.
2️⃣ Monetization and Mindset Building: Entering the Market During a Boom Period
@Bitwux (XHunt Chinese #22): Overcoming "Content Shame."
🔗 https://x.com/Bitwux/status/2012063949232226455
To address the psychological barrier that many people have about "not daring to write long articles," it's important to emphasize that in today's rapidly changing algorithmic environment, consistent output is more important than chasing a single viral hit. Focus on completing the process first—don't self-censor or limit yourself out of fear that no one will read it.
@Bqlsj2023 (XHunt Chinese #70): Interaction is the only truth.
🔗The link you provided appears to be a tweet from the X (formerly Twitter) platform. However, I cannot directly access or view the content of the link. If you'd like me to help, you can copy and paste the text of the tweet here, and I'll do my best to translate it for you.
The current recommendation system is fully entrusted to the Grok model for self-learning, making superficial metrics completely ineffective. The algorithm cares most about whether users can truly stay engaged and start conversations. Deep, back-and-forth dialogues are the strongest positive signals.
- @DeFiTeddy2020 (XHunt Chinese #88): Practical Guidelines and XHunt Traffic Tools
🔗https://x.com/DeFiTeddy2020/status/2013506697202184692
Grok recommends six golden rules for X creators: 1. **Authenticity**: Stay genuine and transparent in content. 2. **Engagement**: Actively interact with your audience to build a loyal community. 3. **Consistency**: Regularly post high-quality content to maintain visibility. 4. **Relevance**: Stay up-to-date with trends and create content that resonates with current interests. 5. **Value Addition**: Provide useful, insightful, or entertaining content that adds value to your audience. 6. **Adaptability**: Be flexible and willing to adjust your strategy based on feedback and changing trends. In response to the urgent need for filtering "real traffic," XHunt has launched the **Traffic Ranking** feature. This tool helps users track KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders), trending topics, and project hotspots, while identifying those with genuine engagement and real influence.
@DtDt666 (XHunt Chinese #255): The Truth Behind an Annual Income of 2 Million.
A personal case reveals that in 2025, income from advertising and referral commissions will be approximately 2 million RMB. The core secret lies in "self-education" and "vertical positioning." Continuously sharing one's growth journey is essential to attract and retain high-value traffic.
@DRbitcoin36 (XHunt Chinese #408): Creator bull market.
🔗 https://x.com/DRbitcoin36/status/2007376209626444015
It is observed that the base income of Chinese CTs is rising (with a ceiling of up to 2990U). X's incentive mechanism is forming a positive cycle, and it is currently a period of rewards for consistent contributors.
3️⃣ Content Creation Methodology: Long-form Writing, Personality, and Contrarian Views
@y_cryptoanalyst (XHunt Chinese #319): The Balancing Act Between Volume and Depth.
🔗 https://x.com/y_cryptoanalyst/status/2013119291512820082
It highlights the current dilemma for KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders): should they write long articles to cater to algorithms, or post short, heartfelt comments according to their true feelings? This indirectly confirms that the increasing emphasis on long-form content is forcing creators to change their behavior.
@oran_ge (XHunt Chinese #682): Pragmatism prevails.
Take a single guide (with 2 million exposures and 10,000 in rebates) as an example, which demonstrates how the algorithm rewards content with a "high signal-to-noise ratio." Detailed, helpful content that helps users avoid pitfalls has extremely strong long-tail monetization potential.
@JimmyShequ (XHunt Chinese #2950): Reject mediocrity.
🔗 The link you provided appears to be a tweet from the X (formerly Twitter) platform. However, I cannot directly access or view the content of the link. If you'd like me to help, you can copy and paste the text of the tweet here, and I'll do my best to assist you with translation or other tasks.
Under label restrictions, ordinary content struggles to stand out. Viral content requires "contrarian viewpoints" and "narrative elevation." KOLs must dare to take strong positions, gaining loyal followers through personal resonance rather than merely acting as content curators.
💡 Biteye's Perspective
The CT of 2026 will no longer be a lawless frontier.
This is a Cognitive efficiency An era of systematic amplification.
The algorithm has finally taken the side of "thoughtful people."
If you are willing:
- Write clearly about one thing.
- Draw a good picture.
- Establish a stable viewpoint output.
So, this round of reshuffling is beneficial to you.
Next Step:
- Find the right positioning:Whether it's the platform or the project side, they all prefer accounts that are sufficiently specialized, have a highly engaged fan base, and are memorable.
- Interactive with opinions:Reject being a parrot; don't just forward news. When chasing hot topics, add your logical reasoning (Grok loves logic).
- Data speaks: Learn to visualize complex information; a great image is worth a thousand words (click-attracting magic).
- Embrace long-form content: Whether you're after the $1 million bounty or higher ad revenue, long-form content remains the optimal solution under the current algorithm.
- Small Opportunity: The new algorithm explicitly eliminates author bias. As long as your content is a "Banger" (i.e., content that can instantly spark engagement), and you gain genuine in-depth engagement early on, it can trigger the Phoenix system's recommendations to strangers, achieving a single-post breakout.
⬇️ Appendix: Creator's Essential Guide
[Official SOP] Twitter Article Writing Guide:
https://x.com/XCreators/status/2011957172821737574
[Real Gold and Silver] Million Dollar Reward Event:
[Practical Tool] Recommended Hot Topic Tracking Tools:
https://x.com/Biteye/status/2013204713005797752
[Wealth Experiment] Unveiling the KOL Wheel:
https://x.com/BiteyeCN/status/1986748741592711374
[KOL Landscape] The Influence of Chinese KOLs in the InfoFi Wave: