r/techsupport Takes a Stand: A 48-Hour Protest Against Reddit’s API Changes
Introduction
In a significant move reflecting widespread concern within the Reddit community, the moderation team of r/techsupport has announced a temporary shutdown of the subreddit to protest recent changes to Reddit’s API pricing. This decision is aimed at raising awareness about the impact these changes could have on users and developers alike.
The Issue at Hand
On May 31, 2023, Reddit introduced a new pricing structure for API access that many believe will effectively eliminate a variety of third-party mobile applications that enhance user experience. Renowned apps such as Apollo, Reddit is Fun, Narwhal, and BaconReader, which provide unique features unavailable in Reddit’s official app, are now at serious risk due to the exorbitant costs associated with API calls.
Even if you do not utilize these mobile applications, the implications of these policy changes extend far beyond mobile usage. They may jeopardize other customization options, including tools like Reddit Enhancement Suite and older desktop versions of Reddit. Moreover, many subreddit moderators rely on external tools to efficiently manage their communities, ensuring they remain engaging and spam-free.
Our Response
In light of these developments, the moderation team of r/techsupport has pledged to stand against the unfavorable API pricing policy. Therefore, we will be temporarily closing the subreddit for at least 48 hours, beginning on June 12th, in a show of solidarity with impacted developers and users.
How You Can Help
We invite you to join our cause and make your voice heard:
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Sign the Open Letter: Support our efforts by reading and signing the open letter regarding this issue here.
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Spread the Word: Share your thoughts on social media and encourage others to join our protest. The more voices we have, the better our chances of making an impact.
While we understand this may cause inconvenience for those who rely on our subreddit for assistance, we firmly believe that taking a stand is essential for the well-being of our community. Please note that although the subreddit will be offline, our Live Chat on Discord will remain available.
Conclusion
We appreciate your understanding and support during this critical time. Together, we can advocate for the preservation of a diverse and user-friendly Reddit experience.
Additional Resources
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