Reddit will exempt apps that utilize its API to provide accessibility features, as reported by The Verge. Reddit spokesperson Tim Rathschmidt stated to the publication that non-commercial apps that “address accessibility needs” will not be required to pay the new fees.
And the current situation on Reddit is anything but calm. In late April, it was announced that the platform would start charging developers of apps that utilize its API. This news did not sit well with the Reddit app developer community or the users themselves.
Among those affected is Christian Selig, the developer of Apollo, a popular app for browsing Reddit that offers a wide range of new features. A few days ago, the platform contacted Selig, demanding a staggering $12,000 for every 50 million API requests (or $20 million per year) if he wants his app to continue functioning.
This situation also applies to other app developers, who would be forced to abandon their apps due to these new fees, which they describe as “abusive.” These apps serve, among other things, to assist moderators in their functions or enable people with disabilities to enjoy Reddit’s content.
In response to this situation, the Reddit community has rallied behind app developers by creating the subreddit r/Save3rdPartyApps and organizing a 48-hour blackout on June 12th. As a result, numerous communities, some with millions of followers, will be completely inaccessible during this time (at the very least).
Not charging accessibility app developers will be beneficial for both users and Reddit itself, although the measure still doesn’t solve the serious crisis the platform is facing. Will they backtrack and lower the API usage fees?
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