Observed Signal · Jan 16, 2023 · Policy Update · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Negative
Twitter reportedly blocks third-party apps deliberately
The article reports that Twitter has deliberately blocked third-party apps such as Tweetbot and Twitterrific by revoking access to its API, contrary to claims of technical issues. The Information cites internal Slack messages from Twitter engineers indicating an intentional action, while Twitter has not publicly explained the rationale. Tweetbot awaits an official statement from Twitter. The piece notes that third-party apps were influential in Twitter’s early growth (e.g., Tweetie and TweetDeck) and suggests Twitter may integrate some features from these apps in-house. Additionally, Social Media Today is cited as reporting that Twitter is developing an improved in-app search to better handle typos, offering some user-facing improvement amid the API disruption.
Policy update affecting API access for third-party Twitter clients; notable for developers and the AdTech ecosystem.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- The Information reports Twitter deliberately revoked API access for third-party apps like Tweetbot and Twitterrific.
- Internal Slack messages from Twitter engineers allegedly indicate the ban was intentional.
- Tweetbot has not received an official explanation from Twitter.
- Tom Warren of The Verge called the move 'another misstep' by Twitter.
- Social Media Today reports Twitter is working on an improved in-app search that accounts for typos.
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