Twitter is not the sole social platform causing a stir among its users with the introduction of new fees. Reddit, too, is implementing charges for third-party developers. This move has sparked a reaction from both developers and redditors, with threats of jumping ship if the company proceeds. NPR highlights that many redditors rely on third-party apps like Apollo, ReddPlanet, and Rediddit is Fun to access the site. These developers have expressed their inability to afford the charges, which Reddit claims amount to less than $1 per user per month. In response, approximately 6,000 subreddits, including some of the largest ones, have gone private for 48 hours, as reported by CNN. This blackout encompasses at least two dozen subreddits, each boasting a minimum of 10 million subscribers.
Historically, third-party developers have enjoyed free access to Reddit’s API since the site’s inception in 2005. However, according to a representative’s statement to Axios, providing this access incurs multi-million-dollar hosting fees each year, which Reddit believes should be fairly compensated. CEO Steve Huffman acknowledges that Reddit is not currently profitable and emphasizes the need to stop subsidizing commercial entities that require extensive use of data. NPR highlights that this decision comes amidst a 5% reduction in Reddit’s workforce.
However, the Reddit community does not easily accept this explanation. “During the blackout period, we encourage you to use this time to reflect on the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and creativity on Reddit, other online platforms, and in life in general,” states the NOLA subreddit moderators. User InternetArtisan expresses their skepticism, stating, “Just come out and say you want more money. I grow tired of when I see CEOs try to paint some picture that somehow bringing in more money means better innovation and services.” (Reddit attempted to go public in 2021 but was unsuccessful due to the tech crash. There are rumors of another attempt later this year.)
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