Ask HN: Why is Reddit on mobile so obsessed with making me use their app?

Article summary

The author of the post is frustrated with Reddit's constant prompts to use their mobile app instead of the website. The author prefers using the browser and wishes Reddit would stop nagging them to download the app. Reddit's motivations for promoting their app are unclear to the author. The post sparks a discussion about the potential reasons behind Reddit's behavior.

Main themes

• ad revenue
• user tracking
• app vs website
• user experience
• monetization
• data privacy

What commenters say

• Reddit's obsession with their app is driven by ad revenue and the ability to track user activity more effectively.
• The app provides a better user experience and more features than the website, making it a preferable choice for many users.
• Using the app allows Reddit to send push notifications and increase user engagement, which can lead to more ad views and revenue.
• Some users prefer third-party apps or the website because they offer more flexibility and customization options, and are not cluttered with ads and notifications.
• The use of apps can lead to a loss of control over data and privacy, as companies can collect more information about users and their activities.
• Reddit's strategy may be part of a larger trend of companies trying to increase user engagement and monetization through mobile apps.
• The app may be seen as a way to create a more sticky and engaging experience, with features like notifications and awards, which can increase user retention and revenue.
• Some users are concerned that Reddit may eventually restrict or eliminate third-party apps, similar to Twitter's approach, in order to increase their control over the user experience and revenue streams.