X Eliminates Like and Follow Features from Free Tier of Developer API

In an effort to mitigate misuse and automate interactions, Elon Musk’s X is discontinuing access to two crucial features of its developer API for free plan users. Consequently, free users will no longer have the ability to like posts on behalf of any accounts or follow other users.

The company asserts that these changes are designed to protect X’s platform from “spam, bots, and deceptive tactics” that detrimentally affect user experience.

Developers on paid plans—Basic, Pro, or Enterprise—will remain unaffected by these updates, which offer additional features, higher rate limitations, and improved functionality.

While these restrictions on standard activities may aid in reducing programmatic abuse, they may also force developers with legitimate businesses or projects to switch to paid plans to continue their endeavors.

Under Musk’s leadership, X has made a number of significant changes to its API platform, starting with the sudden elimination of free access without prior notice to developers, followed by a later decision to permit some free usage. When the new API pricing model was rolled out in spring 2023, it became clear that the company was focused on revenue enhancement, with its most basic plan primarily aimed at supporting “good bots”—automated accounts that provide valuable information, such as weather updates.

Additionally, in October of last year, X increased the monthly rate for its basic tier from $100 to $200 and implemented stricter limitations.

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