Billy Markus Slams X Algorithm as a "Failure" in Blunt Exchange With Elon Musk
On February 12, 2026, Dogecoin co-founder Billy Markus (known as @BillyM2k or Shibetoshi Nakamoto) delivered a harsh critique of the X (formerly Twitter) algorithm, labeling any system that fails to prioritize followers' content as a "failure".
The Exchange
The confrontation began when Markus expressed he "really hates" the current X algorithm. Elon Musk acknowledged the dissatisfaction, stating that he also dislikes the current state and is working to improve it. Markus responded with a blunt standard for social media platforms:
Follower Priority: Markus argued that a social app should primarily show your content to your followers and show you content from accounts you actually follow.
Verdict of Failure: He added that any algorithm failing to meet this basic norm is a failure.
Context of Ongoing Friction
This 2026 exchange follows a pattern of criticism from Markus regarding X's development under Musk's ownership:
Political Tilt: In March 2025, Markus expressed frustration with the platform's "political tilt," describing politics as a "true cancer" that ruins everything.
Neglect of Creators: He previously stated that creator tools on the platform had been "completely ignored," prompting Musk to publicly invite Markus to "help build" those tools himself.
Historical Contrast
While Markus has maintained a complicated relationship with Musk, the other Dogecoin co-founder, Jackson Palmer, has historically been more openly hostile. Palmer famously labeled Musk a "grifter" in 2022 and questioned his coding abilities, leading to a public feud where Musk called Palmer’s code "useless" and referred to him as a "tool".
As of February 13, 2026, Dogecoin (DOGE) was trading at approximately $0.1659.
$DOGE #Dogecoin #ElonMusk #XAlgorithm #socialmedia #BillyMarkus