Why Reddit blocked my daily visit to its mobile website
Ars Technica • • general
Key Points:
- Reddit has started testing an overlay on its mobile website that blocks access for certain frequent logged-out users, prompting them to download the Reddit app to continue using the service.
- The company claims the app provides a better, more personalized experience with improved search and community discovery, but the overlay offers no way to bypass or skip it on the mobile web.
- This move aligns Reddit with other platforms like X and Instagram that aggressively push users toward their apps, causing frustration among users who prefer the open web experience.
- User backlash has been notable, with complaints posted on Reddit itself and coverage highlighting the perception that Reddit is intentionally breaking its mobile website to force app adoption.
- Some users, including the article’s author, express reluctance to install more apps or engage more deeply with personalized feeds, suggesting that Reddit’s tactics could risk driving away users altogether.
