Multiple Reddit Apps Face Shutdown After Controversial API Changes

Recent changes to Reddit's API pricing structure have led multiple Reddit apps to announce their impending shutdown, including Apollo for Reddit, rif is Fun for Reddit, ReddPlanet, and Sync. Set to close on June 30th, these popular third-party apps will cease to exist due to Reddit's new policies created after the company's unwillingness to compromise with developers over key issues.

rif is fun for Reddit plans to close "in response to Reddit Inc's API changes and their hostile treatment of developers building on their platform," according to its developer. They cited Reddit's unwillingness to compromise on critical points, such as costs expected to be "in the ballpark" of Apollo's estimated $20 million per year, the decision to block ads in third-party apps, and the removal of sexually explicit content from apps, even though this content remains available on Reddit's official apps.

ReddPlanet's developer shared similar sentiments, saying, "The hurdles placed on third-party apps by Reddit just aren't a feasible obstacle to overcome." They pointed to the removal of explicit content, unreasonable pricing structure, short adjustment period, lack of responsiveness, and refusal to come to a middle ground as evidence that Reddit is attempting to extinguish all third-party apps.

Sync's developer also expressed regret at having to shut down their app, remarking that it has been a labor of love and their life for the past decade, but with the current situation, they see no alternative. This avalanche of app shutdowns follows a wave of outrage from Reddit's user base and the developer community concerning the API changes, which could result in exorbitant costs for app developers.

Reddit has yet to comment on the issue, though it plans to host an AMA with CEO Steve Huffman on the matter of API updates, accessibility, mod bots, and third-party mod tools. As the date for the shutdowns approaches, the community remains concerned about the future of their favorite Reddit apps and the impact of these changes on the platform as a whole.