Post AWobAQnr9fB1SKL3bc by pyannakas@mstdn.social
(DIR) More posts by pyannakas@mstdn.social
(DIR) Post #AWoaoCFqZ7BlxnpRHU by linux4kix@mastodon.online
2023-06-18T05:11:26Z
1 likes, 0 repeats
I usually don't comment on tech industry turmoil. I don't like what #reddit is doing for 3rd party apps, but why is everyone not talking about how part of the monetization process is #Apple / #google taking a %30 app store cut on subscriptions when they are doing nothing but automated payment processing? Not their data, not their apps, not their backend expenses to run the site.
(DIR) Post #AWoaoEyET3siO2buk4 by linux4kix@mastodon.online
2023-06-18T05:17:11Z
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The obvious solution for me would be to make #reddit or any other site like this the subscription source, where they take money for access to the APIs take their agreed upon cut and then pay back to the app developers the breakdown of the left over money if users are using their app. Provide bulk access at a different pricing for large AI dev houses. Provide their own free ad supported app for people that don't want to pay.
(DIR) Post #AWoaoIdootvflt5fTk by linux4kix@mastodon.online
2023-06-18T05:55:45Z
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Just to illustrate the problem. I listened to an interview with the developer for #apollo and he said a heaver user would cost him $3.80 a month when he charges a subscription of $5.00 of which #apple already takes $1.50, which would put him at a loss on that user. If he raises his price to $7.00/month #reddit is still taking $3.80 but now #apple is taking $2.10. Leaving him with $1.10 (15%). And #apple has been collecting this money for years now.
(DIR) Post #AWobAOeDAYH0lpoKIK by pyannakas@mstdn.social
2023-06-18T07:07:04Z
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@linux4kix I believe that the whole discussion is a hidden taboo we avoid to discusss. Are some services (like wikipedia, reddit or a Android Platform) something bigger than just a commercial product? For sure it is not important like water, but still a honest social discussion should be placed. Especially in the case of reddit, we had the wired modern situtation that many people (mods) was working for free. If it is a commercial product, unpaid positions should be illegal like a coffee place.
(DIR) Post #AWobAPUg1UEzOYME4W by linux4kix@mastodon.online
2023-06-18T08:03:09Z
0 likes, 0 repeats
@pyannakas I think a large part of why it isn't talked about is because small developers know they will just be sued into oblivion if they dare stand up to the existing app store extortion that exists on modern platforms. Even larger platforms like #EpicGames mainly lost. All platforms are basically full on monopolies for anyone that want to build apps and services for them. I know they have value and some apps may want to use them but you shouldn't be forced to.
(DIR) Post #AWobAQ7Jhp9JKOR5Ie by linux4kix@mastodon.online
2023-06-18T10:53:24Z
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@pyannakas As I said I don't pay much attention to this stuff, and I completely missed this final ruling. https://www.businessinsider.com/app-store-developers-can-skirt-30-fee-outside-links-court-2023-4?r=US&IR=TUltimately the answer is as simple as, service platforms just need to build their own payment systems and create a business model that encourages developers to use that. I don't think #reddit wants this but there is an avenue for them to monetize their platform and encourage a 3rd party developer ecosystem
(DIR) Post #AWobAQnr9fB1SKL3bc by pyannakas@mstdn.social
2023-06-18T11:48:12Z
1 likes, 0 repeats
@linux4kix Exactly, service platforms need to build their own business. I love reddit, but I have to admit without mods it is a empty or nonsense place. Also beside these a few particular projects (AMA etc) it was no attempt from the company to have unique content.