The recent Reddit blackout, aimed at protesting API policy changes, has sparked significant discussions and potential consequences.
With thousands of subreddits going dark, the platform has faced disruptions and backlash as the intriguing API policy changes settle in.
Reddit Doubles Down on Policy Changes
Reddit Blackout 2023
Despite user demands, Reddit CEO Steve Huffman has reiterated his stance on the API policy changes. Huffman defended the need for the platform to evolve and adopt a more professional approach. However, this unwavering response has further fueled frustrations among the Reddit community.
According to Engadget, numerous subreddits, including popular ones like r/funny and r/aww, have remained private or restricted even after the initial blackout period.
On the other hand, moderators, committed to the cause, plan to continue their protests indefinitely. This ongoing action impacts Redditors and search results, as users rely on the valuable discussions and shared knowledge found within these subreddits.
Huffman Hints on the Possibility of Removing Moderators
The blackout may prompt Reddit to reconsider its policies and interactions with moderators. Huffman and Reddit administrators have hinted at the possibility of making it easier to remove moderators.
Although the specifics remain unclear, this shift could alter the power dynamics between the platform and its volunteer moderators, potentially impacting their influence over Reddit's operations.
Whether or not Huffman cares about the welfare of subreddits, it does not change the fact that he's entirely accountable even after blaming himself as a "guy arguing" against third-party app developers.
Related Article: New API Policy Forces Third-Party Reddit Apps to Shut Down-What's the Problem?
Impact of Reddit Blackout on Advertisers
Aside from the Redditors, the Reddit outage also affects the advertisers who are launching campaigns on the platform. As a result, they temporarily halted their operations to avoid getting associated with other groups protesting against the platform.
Reddit Alternatives You Need to See
Even though Reddit just went online again after the controversial outage, it does not mean that the protest is over. The Reddit blackout just prompted some users to jump to other platforms, including Discord.
If you're looking for a good Reddit replacement in the meantime, you can check Tech Times' previous report about the best Reddit alternatives.
Elsewhere, a previous report from the same publication noted that Reddit had added the ability to let users search for information quickly.
The face of the internet launched the Common Search function on several platforms, including Android, iOS, and Desktop. It generates results without the need to click excessively. As one of the Reddit mods wrote, "No more long scrolling sessions - quickly get to the parts of the conversation you're looking for and jump in where you want."
For Mac users, there's a need to tap Cmd-F to enable this function. For those who rely on Windows, you can simply click Ctrl-F.
Read Also: Gaming Subreddits Join Reddit Blackout Against Drastic API Pricing Hike
