Mario-maker Nintendo cuts ties with X over high API fees
What's the story
Nintendo has declared it will discontinue direct integration from the Switch's image album to X.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Mario maker confirmed that from June 10, users will no longer be able to post screenshots and videos to X from Switch's album.
Additionally, sending friend requests to social media users via the 'Friend Suggestions' feature will also be discontinued.
The decision is a response to the high API fees charged by Elon Musk's platform.
Information
High API fees: The root cause of the discontinuation
X charges companies $40,000 or more per month for access to its API. Wired reported last year that the cheapest Enterprise API plan for X starts at $42,000 monthly, with higher tiers costing up to $210,000 per month.
Twitter Post
Nintendo's official statement on ending X integration
As of June 10, 2024, it will
—post screenshots and videos to X (formerly Twitter) from the Nintendo Switch's Album, or send friend requests to social media users via the Friend Suggestions feature. no longer be possible to
Find out more: https://t.co/rNkouTo109Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) May 9, 2024
Platform response
X responds to Nintendo's decision to end integration
In response to Nintendo's decision, X's official gaming account @xGaming released a perplexing, statement that sidesteps its significant involvement in Nintendo's departure
"Our partnership with Nintendo remains strong, and we are working together to ensure a smooth transition for all users," @xGaming posted at the end of its response to Nintendo's announcement.
"We will continue collaborating with partners to bring new and exciting experiences to our global gaming community," the post added.
User options
Alternative ways to share Switch screenshots on X
Despite the discontinuation of direct integration, users can still post Switch screenshots on X manually.
This can be done by sending Switch album images to their phone wirelessly or transferring them to their PC using a USB cable.
Additionally, Nintendo confirmed that integrated Facebook sharing is still enabled but could potentially be discontinued in the future.