Mario-maker Nintendo cuts ties with X over high API fees
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.
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.
Nintendo's official statement on ending X integration
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.
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.
