x API Pay-Per-Use Pricing

X Expands Pay-Per-Use API Beta Access

Following a two-year period of developer program and pricing adjustments, X is broadening the scope of its closed beta program for a pay-per-use API plan. More developers are now being invited to participate.

Application Process

The social media platform is currently accepting applications from developers interested in joining the program. This announcement was made through the official developer account on X.

According to the post, the expansion aims to include both new developers and existing, active users who are eager to create innovative applications on the X platform.

Detailed API Pricing

X’s updated API page now details the costs associated with various request types. These include actions like reading data, composing posts, sending Direct Messages (DMs), accessing trending topics, and retrieving bookmarks.

A cost estimation calculator is also available on the page. This tool allows developers to project the potential expenses for a specific volume of API usage. This represents a shift from the previous uniform pricing structure where all requests incurred the same cost.

Comparison to Previous Pricing

The new API page features a comparison outlining the differences between the new usage-based pricing and the older, tier-based system. It remains uncertain whether X intends to ultimately phase out the existing plan-based structure.

A request for clarification has been sent to X, and this article will be updated upon receiving a response.

Historical Context of API Changes

This closed beta launch occurs two years after a significant overhaul of X’s API pricing model. Early 2023 saw the blocking of third-party clients, followed by the announcement in February 2023 that free API access would be discontinued, leading to the closure of several applications.

In March 2023, X introduced tiered subscription plans. These included a basic tier priced at $100 per month (now $200) and an enterprise tier costing $42,000 per month.

Introduction of Tiered Plans and Top-Up Packs

A Pro plan, launched a few months later, was offered at $5,000 per month. This plan granted developers access to retrieve 1 million tweets monthly, post 300,000 tweets monthly, and utilize the full archive search endpoint.

However, these plans proved either inadequate or financially prohibitive for many developers. To address this, the company introduced top-up packs last year, enabling applications to exceed their API tier limits.

Potential Benefits of the New Model

This new, usage-based plan has the potential to attract developers who previously left the platform due to pricing concerns. It could also encourage the development of new applications designed to integrate with, or leverage the capabilities of, the X network.