Syed Imran Haider 
Reddit’s mobile app allows users to upload Not Safe for Work (NSFW) images from their devices to share them in adult communities. Now the company has rolled out the same feature for desktop users, making it easy for them to enjoy the same benefits.
The company announced the new update over the r/modnews subreddit. It says the move will help Reddit take the feature parity across the social media platforms. According to Reddit, it gives them feature parity with its mobile app, which already comprises this functionality. Users must set their community to 18+ adults if their content is NSFW.
Earlier, Imgur announced to block of explicit images from May 15. Following the image hosting company’s announcement, Reddit said Imgur’s business and community were at risk because of that explicit content. Blocking such type of content will protect the Imgur community and businesses.
Imgur Bans Mature Content
While Reddit has many communities that rely on image hosting services, the social network allows users to upload native NSFW from their desktop to make it the most logical solution.
In April 2023, Reddit announced the charges for its API and limited access to mature content through it. The decision caused another hurdle besides image hosting for NSFW communities. It would directly impact users’ experience on Reddit’s third-party apps. The latest announcement allowing users to upload NSFW images from desktops also discussed the navigation of the situation.
According to Apollo’s developer, Christian Selig, app developers accept Reddit’s guardrails if they let third-party app users access NSFW communities to keep going with what they want to see over the platform.
A Significant Move
Tech analysts believe Reddit’s move to enable desktop users to exchange NSFW images should be significant. It will bring feature uniformity over social media platforms. They also say the company’s decision will allow people to access mature content from their desktops besides mobile phones. Reddit’s users, especially those who always have called for such a feature will appreciate this move.
On the other hand, Reddit still has to overcome some overcome. Imgur decided to block explicit images, indicating that some Reddit communities might need to look for a new image hosting service. It could also cause some disruption unless communities adopt the new policies.
Reddit’s decision to limit users’ access to adult content using its API could also influence third-party apps. The company should address this problem to maintain a consistent and smooth experience across all mediums, including tabs, smartphones, and desktops.
Some tech analysts say Reddit has taken a positive step by allowing NSFW content uploads on desktops. It will help desktop users feel feature parity for all user types. Besides mobile users, desktop users can also access mature content without distractions. Unfortunately, the company may still need to overcome several hurdles to ensure the smooth performance of its apps across the platforms. It is interesting how Reddit explores these hurdles and challenges in the coming weeks.
