[Jackim]

The developers aren't asking for a free API, just one that is justified based on reddit's costs.

[jdminhbg]

The problem is people think of this in terms of "cost to keep the server on that serves an API request" and not the opportunity cost for ad engagement that actually makes the business viable.

[Jackim]

Sure, but there's also the value that the users create using these apps, and drive engagement to reddit. Not to mention the insane amount of volunteer mod work, many of who use unofficial apps.

[UniverseHacker]

Also the opportunity cost of optics… why is the overall user experience so much better with these apps?