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?
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.