If anything, writing "7x" is actually just a poor emulation of writing "7×".

Saying something is "done at 7x speed" should be read as "done at seven times speed" not as "done at seven x speed". So using the 'times' (multiplication) symbol is the better form in my opinion; it just happens to be significantly easier to type "x" instead, which is how we got here.

But speech evolves. And we all pronounce "ten ex", not "ten times". Actual speech usage very clearly pronounce the letter 'x'.

So it's 10x. And no need for Unicode codepoints.

I fully agree that speech evolves, but maybe this is just in the US? I've never really heard anyone say it here in Australia, it's usually "times", although admittedly almost no one uses the phrase/format here.

Ah, yes. My gripe is certainly US American flavored.

A number plus an “x” is used beyond Trumpistan. I have never in my life heard anyone say “ten ex”.

Have you heard the expression "10x developer"?

Interesting I always thought that "x" (whichever) is used informally for multiplication and proper sign is dot: 3 · 4 = 12

It looks like there is a difference between English speaking languages and the rest in that regard.

Funnily enough, I didn't even have the speaking aspect in mind.

I don't like how the "times" symbol floats off the line -- it's a visual thing for me (again, irrational).