Instant messaging and community application Discord is set to start displaying ads in the coming days. Details about the matter are currently unknown.
Discord, a popular instant messaging platform especially among gamers, has made a radical decision. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, the platform will start showing in-app advertisements in the coming days. This move to display ads on the application, which has been ad-free for years, seems likely to unsettle users.
According to sources familiar with the matter, users will have the option to disable the ads. However, it is unknown if this will be available to all users or only to paid subscribers like Nitro. Meanwhile, it is reported that the Discord algorithm will detect user behavior and ads will be targeted more towards gaming-oriented users.
Why did Discord make such a decision?
The reason behind Discord starting to show ads almost ten years after its initial release in 2015 seems to be the pressure to increase profitability. The company has tried various methods to generate revenue from users, such as Nitro, but has struggled to reach its desired level. Therefore, the board of directors seems to have found the solution in displaying ads.
It is currently unknown how the ads added to Discord will affect user experience. Details such as where the ads will be displayed also remain uncertain. However, it is expected that the Discord management will make a statement regarding this matter soon.
