X is tightening restrictions on its developer API by removing the ability for free-tier users to programmatically like posts or follow accounts. The move is intended to curb “spam, bots, and manipulative activities” that harm the platform’s integrity.
The change marks another step in X’s ongoing effort to limit abusive automation, but it also places more pressure on developers who rely on free access. Those who want to continue building features that depend on likes or follows will now need to migrate to one of the company’s paid tiers – Basic, Pro, or Enterprise – which offer expanded functionality, higher rate limits, and customer support.
The free API has long been a point of contention between X and its developer community. In early 2023, the company announced it would eliminate free access altogether, only to reverse course and reinstate a limited version for small-scale use. Even so, the launch of its revised pricing made clear that the platform was shifting toward monetization, with the entry-level plan largely designed to support “good bots,” such as accounts sharing weather alerts or transit updates.
Developers have also faced rising costs. In October 2024, X doubled the price of its basic tier from $100 to $200 per month, while increasing request limits. The latest restrictions on the free tier leaves fewer options for those running smaller projects or research initiatives, and will likely break a number of existing bot accounts or tools – some of which may return, and others of which may not have the funds to upgrade to keep these like and follow functions.
