Discover Exciting News: Discord Embraces Warnings, Replacing Permanent Bans

Discord is revamping its approach to moderation with the introduction of a new warning system and teen safety assist feature. These updates are part of a series of feature additions that will be rolled out in the coming months, including an in-app shop for Discord members, a new dark theme for mobile, and improved ways to launch apps.

The new Discord warning system aims to be more transparent, providing users with information on how they have violated rules and the restrictions being placed on their account instead of outright bans. Discord’s senior director of policy, Savannah Badalich, stated that the system allows users to learn from their mistakes and correct misjudgments. Most violations will result in temporary one-year bans, except for those that are extremely harmful.

Instead of permanent bans, Discord will start limiting features for rule breakers. When a user violates a rule, they will receive a direct message from Discord informing them of the warning or violation and the action taken. For example, if a user uploads an image that breaks the rules, their ability to post images may be temporarily revoked. Discord claims to have built the most comprehensive and proportionate warning system of any platform, offering transparency and opportunities for users to improve their behavior online.

In addition to the warning system, Discord is launching a teen safety assist feature. This feature includes proactive filters and alerts that will be enabled by default to protect teens. A sensitive content filter will blur sexually explicit content in direct messages and servers, and it will be available for adults to opt into as well.

Discord will use AI models to scan image attachments for explicit content. Although this may raise privacy concerns, Discord emphasizes that it does not violate privacy as it does not involve human intervention. The company’s vice president of trust and safety, John Redgrave, explained that this technology allows for the identification of problematic content while still respecting user privacy. Discord plans to expand its AI models to detect other forms of challenging content and is working on a grooming model to combat sexual exploitation on its platform.

Discord is also introducing safety alerts for teens. When a teen receives a direct message for the first time, they will receive a safety alert with links to block the user or safety tips to protect themselves.

Alongside these safety updates, Discord is enhancing its mobile experience by making the dark theme even darker with a new Midnight theme. This feature, available for compatible devices, saves battery life by turning off all-black pixels. The search functionality on Discord mobile will also be improved with tappable search filters and an auto-clear feature in the notifications tab. Additionally, the mobile app will introduce a Remix feature for creating and sharing memes.

For those interested in avatar decorations and profile effects, Discord will soon launch an in-app store where users can purchase various decorations and effects. Nitro members will receive a discount on these items.

Lastly, Discord is making improvements for apps and developers. Premium app subscriptions, previously available only in the US, will be extended to the UK and Europe. Discord is also exploring ways to make apps usable within its main app and allow users to use apps in a server without admin approval.

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