Reddit CEO Downplays Blackout

Reddit experienced a 48-hour blackout due to subreddits protesting against the removal of free API and the introduction of a pay-as-you-go model. The CEO, Steve Huffman, addressed the issue in an internal memo obtained by The Verge. Huffman downplayed the impact of the protests, stating that it was just another temporary blowup that would eventually pass. He emphasized the company's commitment to implementing the planned API changes despite the backlash. Huffman also mentioned that Reddit had not experienced a significant revenue impact from the protest. The number of subreddits participating in the blackout has grown, with over 8,400 going private as of Tuesday evening. Some subreddits plan to remain private indefinitely until Reddit reconsiders its API changes. Reddit's attempt to quickly resolve the issue and focus on its upcoming paid API launch may backfire if the protests continue to gain momentum.