Time for #DEVDiscuss — right here on DEV 😎
Inspired by the hot news topic of the week, tonight we're discussing...Reddit's API changes!
In case you missed it: Reddit has recently made changes to its API, including a decision to charge for API use over a certain limit. This update will cause various third party Reddit apps, including the very popular Apollo, to close down due to an inability to afford their operations. In response, the moderators of many Reddit communities have taken their subreddits private in protest.
DEV user @theaccordance had a unique, intriguing take on the whole situation:
The 2010s was a golden age in capital investment and the technology industry benefited significantly, enabling a lot of free resources as a draw to build audiences and engagement. However, the 2020s so far have proven to be more challenging. Money is no longer free and as a result, many companies are having to mature their business models to be more self-sustaining. This means reducing expenses and finding additional sources of revenue. Monetizing previously open APIs is an unfortunate intersection that addresses both needs. Expect less free beer on the internet as we progress through these tougher economic times.
So let's talk about it!
Questions:
- What do you think about Reddit's API changes?
- Have your internet browsing habits been affected by the protests?
- Do you think we'll continue to see changes in the "free" internet as the years progress?
- Any other perspectives you'd like to share on this topic?
