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Reddit apparently badly wants people to use their app.

  • When opening the mobile website, Reddit asks whether I want to really keep using the website or open it in the Reddit app. (Can be deactivated in the quick menu.)
  • If a post was shared from the Reddit app, it also says “Shared from the Reddit app”, or similar.
  • RPAN (Reddit Public Access Service) can be accessed from their desktop website, but not the mobile website. For that, Reddit wants you to use their app.
  • Reddit chat? Reddit app.

I know, software apps can technically be more versatile and usually load faster than progressive web-apps, but why is Reddit so highly interested in users using their app?
Reddit **app**arently badly wants people to use their app. * When opening the mobile website, Reddit asks whether I want to *really* keep using the website or open it in the Reddit app. (Can be deactivated in the quick menu.) * If a post was shared from the Reddit app, it also says *“Shared from the Reddit app”*, or similar. * RPAN (*Reddit Public Access Service*) can be accessed from their desktop website, but not the mobile website. For that, Reddit wants you to use their app. * Reddit chat? Reddit app. I know, software apps can technically be more versatile and usually load faster than progressive web-apps, but why is Reddit so highly interested in users using their app?

6 comments

[–] ScorpioGlitch 9 points (+9|-0)

Because the app can track your location, get your phone number and contacts, etc etc. The site is free and you are the product and it has been operating at a loss every year the site has been open.
[–] Handroid7 [OP] -1 points (+0|-1)

the app can track your location

That has been abused by a Reddit administrator recently:

He exposed the location of a /r/JusticeServed viral post's submitter.
[–] Justintoxicated 3 points (+3|-0)

It's because they missed their window. Back in 2008 people wanted a Reddit app but the developers had other concerns so they just endorsed apps made by users. Now they're trying to get in on that app money.
[–] jobes 2 points (+2|-0)

More data harvesting and the inability to use their site without being tracked and data mined for advertiser info
[–] revmoo 1 points (+1|-0)

No way to block ads, a whole lot more data and metrics and tracking.
[–] Handroid7 [OP] -1 points (+0|-1) Edited

I actually don't mind non-intrusive ads.

But yes, the Reddit app apparently is spyware.
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