Twitter cuts off Substack embeds and starts suspending bots

The world of technology has just seen one of the most intriguing and punishing measures taken recently as Twitter has made a major move to cut off the ability for Substack writers to embed tweets in their articles and blog posts, and began suspending accounts related to a major bot network. The repercussions of these measures could have lasting effects on the entire tech ecosystem, and may even be a result of Twitter’s upcoming IPO.

For those who don’t know, Substack is a popular newsletter platform used by many independent writers and bloggers, and allows them to send their content to their followers through embedded tweets. This feature was an easy way for authors to promote their work, while at the same time providing a direct line to the social media giant, Twitter.

But recently, Twitter has put an end to this connection. Its decision to disable the ability to embed tweets in Substack newsletters is a major move and may have far-reaching implications. This could even signal the beginning of stricter rules for platforms like Substack, or pressure for them to pay Twitter for the privilege of having their content integrated into the platform.

The other side to this story is the suspension of accounts related to a major bot network. Twitter recently has made a point to more decisively combat automated accounts and those who perpetrate spam and abuse. These suspensions are part of a larger effort to clamp down on bad actors, both on Twitter itself and with its connection to other platforms including Substack.

Though Twitter may have had motives beyond just Substack-specific concerns, it could be a sign of the times as the company is due to have its Public Investment Offer (IPO) later this year. There is a general consensus that recently Twitter has become more stringent when it comes to policing certain accounts and technologies that could put the company at risk of facing more scrutiny.

In the end, Twitter’s decision to limit connections between it and Substack is a highly significant move, one that will have challenges for those who used to benefit from it, but also one that may help create a safer and more responsible tech ecosystem. Furthermore, it could be a signal for what is to come once Twitter fully enters the world of public investment and starts facing public scrutiny.