Home News Reddit says some accessibility apps won’t have to pay for its API

Reddit says some accessibility apps won’t have to pay for its API

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Reddit blackout

Reddit has revised its API policy to provide exemptions for certain accessibility apps that do not monetize their services. The decision comes in response to criticism from developers who argued that the new pricing structure would put them out of business. Reddit has reached out to select developers of non-commercial apps that focus on accessibility features and offered them exemptions from the pricing changes. The company’s spokesperson, Tim Rathschmidt, stated that they are currently in discussions with developers and did not disclose the specific services or the number of apps covered by the exemption.

The planned API changes have sparked anger among developers and concerns from Reddit users who rely on accessibility aids like screen readers. The moderators of r/Blind announced their participation in a Reddit blackout to protest the changes, along with over 1,000 other subreddits. During this blackout, participating communities will go offline for 48 hours.

While the exemption for non-commercial accessibility apps brings relief to certain communities like r/Blind, it does not benefit the majority of third-party app developers. Monetized apps such as Apollo, RIF, and BaconReader, despite offering robust accessibility features, do not qualify for the exemption. Without further concessions from Reddit, these developers still face the possibility of shutting down or significantly altering their services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about API pricing changes on Reddit

What changes has Reddit made to its API pricing?

Reddit has revised its API pricing structure. They have offered exemptions to developers of select non-commercial apps that focus on accessibility features. However, monetized apps are still at risk and do not qualify for the exemption.

How many non-commercial accessibility apps will be exempt from the new pricing structure?

The exact number of apps covered by the exemption has not been disclosed. Reddit has reached out to select developers of non-commercial apps and is in ongoing discussions with them.

What concerns have developers raised regarding the API changes?

Many developers have expressed concerns that the new pricing structure will put them out of business. Christian Selig, the developer of Apollo, stated that it would cost him $20 million a year to keep the app running as it is.

Why are Reddit users concerned about the API changes?

Reddit users who rely on accessibility aids, such as screen readers, are concerned about how the API changes will impact their ability to use the site. The changes have sparked widespread concern among these users.

What is the Reddit blackout?

The Reddit blackout refers to a protest where participating subreddits, including r/Blind, go offline for 48 hours to express their opposition to the API changes. Over 1,000 subreddits have joined the blackout to raise awareness of the issue.

Will the exemption for non-commercial accessibility apps benefit all third-party app developers?

No, the exemption only applies to select non-commercial apps. Monetized apps like Apollo, RIF, and BaconReader, even if they offer accessibility features, do not qualify for the exemption and may still face the possibility of closure or significant alterations.

More about API pricing changes on Reddit

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