Twitter is considering whether to build a premium version of its network aimed at professionals, raising the possibility it could collect subscription fees from some users for the first time.

Like most other social media companies, Twitter since its founding 11 years ago has focused on building a huge user base for a free service supported by advertising.

It reported in February it had 319 million users worldwide.

But unlike the much-larger Facebook, Twitter has failed to attract enough in advertising revenue to turn a profit even as its popularity with US President Donald Trump and other celebrities makes the network a constant centre of attention.

Twitter is conducting a survey "to assess the interest in a new, more enhanced version of Tweetdeck", which was an existing tool that helps users navigate the network, spokeswoman Brielle Villablanca said on Thursday.

"We regularly conduct user research to gather feedback about people's Twitter experience and to better inform our product investment decisions, and we're exploring several ways to make Tweetdeck even more valuable for professionals," she said.

There was no indication Twitter was considering charging fees from all its users.

Other social media firms, such as Microsoft Corp's LinkedIn unit, already have tiered memberships, with subscription versions that offer greater access and data.