Seven months after Reddit's controversial API changes, surviving third-party Reddit apps like Narwhal 2 and Infinity for Reddit have transitioned to subscription-based models due to Reddit's new API pricing. Developers are facing challenges as they navigate the shift, with some experiencing declines in active user bases and negative feedback from users. Despite the changes, developers are working to keep their apps open and profitable, while also facing restrictions due to non-disclosure agreements with Reddit.
Microsoft has launched a subscription-based version of its AI Copilot, called Copilot Pro, for $20 a month, offering enhanced features such as priority access to the latest AI models, including OpenAI’s GPT-4 Turbo, and AI image generation through Image Creator from Designer. Subscribers will also have access to a Copilot GPT Builder feature and can use Copilot in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Excel, and the Office 365 mobile app.
Broadcom has stopped selling perpetual licenses for VMware products, as part of its plan to transition VMware into a subscription-based business. Existing customers with perpetual licenses can continue to use them but will eventually lose support. Broadcom aims to push customers towards subscriptions and is offering upgrade pricing incentives for those who switch. The move is part of Broadcom's strategy to grow VMware's earnings through a shift to subscriptions. However, customers and partners have expressed concerns about the sudden change and potential price increases.
Former Kotaku writers have launched a new independent video game and culture website called Aftermath. The worker-owned media company aims to deliver breaking news, criticism, analysis, and editorial content. Aftermath will operate on a subscription-based model, offering access to articles and bonus podcast episodes. The founders hope to create a stable and empowering environment for both writers and readers, free from the ad-driven model and corporate ownership prevalent in the industry. They also plan to expand their team in the future.
Four former Kotaku writers have launched a new subscription-based video game and culture publication called Aftermath. Co-owned by Nathan Grayson, Gita Jackson, Riley MacLeod, and Luke Plunkett, Aftermath aims to discuss the intersection of capitalism and the internet, as well as provide a platform for self-expression and critical analysis of the gaming industry. The publication plans to operate on a sustainable business model by relying on subscriptions rather than advertising revenue. Aftermath will feature articles, podcasts, and Twitch content, and offers three subscription tiers for readers to choose from. The founders hope to find success by centering their audience and providing a unique perspective on video games and related topics.
Tucker Carlson, former Fox News host, and Neil Patel, former White House adviser, are reportedly seeking to raise funds to launch a new media company that could be anchored on Twitter. The company would feature longer versions of the free videos Carlson has been posting on Elon Musk's Twitter account, with a focus on subscription-based content. Carlson and Fox News parted ways in April, and he has since released episodes of his new show, "Tucker on Twitter."
