RT Chris Park (@chrisparkX)Our X API will continue to be free for all emergency and weather utility apps. If you are sending weather notifications, saving lives, and serving humanity, please DM us.@XDevelopers 🫡 https://t.co/Y1hwOQW4hK ...

Core Insights - Elon Musk's acquisition of X (formerly Twitter) in 2022 for $44 billion is considered one of his most unsuccessful investments, with the company's valuation reportedly dropping to $19 billion by fall 2023, less than half of the purchase price [1] - Musk secured a $13 billion loan from a syndicate of banks, leading to an annual interest payment of $1.2 billion, creating ongoing financial pressure for X [3] - X has changed its API pricing model to a revenue-sharing approach, moving away from a fixed monthly fee, which reflects a strategy to generate revenue amid financial challenges [10][11] Financial Strategies - The new API pricing model will allow X to take a percentage of the revenue generated by third-party developers using its API, which is seen as more favorable for smaller developers but potentially disadvantageous for larger firms [11][13] - The merger between Musk's AI startup xAI and X is aimed at leveraging X's vast data resources to enhance xAI's capabilities, particularly in the context of AI development [8][10] - The integration of xAI with X is expected to provide significant data advantages, as X generates large volumes of user-generated content that can be utilized for AI training [8][10] Market Positioning - The shift in API pricing is a strategic move to attract AI developers while also addressing the financial needs of X, which is under pressure to manage its debt [13] - Musk's previous criticism of Apple's App Store fees contrasts with X's new revenue-sharing model, highlighting a rapid shift in strategy to capitalize on the AI boom [6][13] - The financial maneuvers, including the merger and new pricing strategies, indicate a broader effort to stabilize X's financial situation and reduce debt burdens [13]