Twitter has revised its previous statement on bots and its API. It appears that Twitter will not remove all bots from the platform after all. Elon Musk has altered his position on third-party developers, now allowing “good bots” to continue using the API without charge.
This change comes after the original announcement that bots will no longer have free access to the API. That rule would apply to the bots of all types. This caused some developers who relied on open-source systems and lacked proper funding to withdraw their services.
‘Good Bots’ Can Use Twitter’s API Without Paying
According to a recent announcement from Twitter’s Chief Tweet, access to the platform’s API will now have a limit. It would be available only to “good” bots. This change on Twitter will take effect soon. The Twitter team are still working out the details of how this new system will work.
However, the move aims at curtailing the number of bots on the platform. So as to ensure that only bots with a valid reason for using the API will have access to it. Pepito the Cat on Twitter, shared a picture and message in response to the company’s recent announcement.
As per Twitter’s statement, starting February 9th, third-party client developers will no longer have free access to the API. This applies to all bots, with no exceptions. However, the CEO has expressed some thoughts on the matter.
What is the Difference Between Good Bots and the Bad Ones?
According to a reply from Elon Musk, certain “good bots” will get special privileges to continue operating on the platform without restriction. However, concern arises on how the platform’s owner and Twitter will distinguish between the “good” and “bad” bots. Particularly since there are limitations on the privileges that the former will get.
Major Changes on Twitter Under Musk
Twitter underwent significant changes under the leadership of Elon Musk and his takeover, which resulted in several features that were previously available for free now requiring payment. One such example is the verification subscription, which now charges a monthly fee of $11 for mobile users and $8 for web users to receive the blue checkmark symbol on their profiles.
Conclusion
Recently, another controversial alteration has taken place concerning Twitter’s API, as it will no longer provide free access to bots. This decision has led many users to abandon Twitter and switch to its competitor, Mastodon. Twitter’s recent changes have also affected its former client developers who previously enjoyed free access to the platform.
Under the leadership of Elon Musk, the social media giant has undergone significant changes, which may not align with the expectations of users who were accustomed to a free environment on Twitter. However, there is still hope for some, particularly bot and client developers who have maintained a positive reputation, as they retain their free access to the Twitter API.
