Comment on Why AO3 Doesn't Have an Official App

  1. carrisa_lyna Fri 24 Jul 2026 08:32AM UTC

    You could just publish the app via IzzyDroid or F-Droid but then there's the pesky Android Developer Verification

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    1. RuanChunXian Fri 24 Jul 2026 01:53PM UTC

      I think the other reason is that OTW doesn't have the resources to develop an app. Coders are volunteers and much better off dedicated to keep the site afloat.

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      1. carrisa_lyna Fri 24 Jul 2026 04:35PM UTC

        True

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    3. 1____1 Fri 24 Jul 2026 05:23PM UTC

      Why don't just publish it as an apk here? Users can just download the apk directly from the site then? No need to distribute it via an official distributor

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      1. carrisa_lyna Fri 24 Jul 2026 05:49PM UTC

        Same goes for other devs who also publish it on the same platform + play store

        Broad reach

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      2. OTW_News_Post_Moderation (Official) Fri 24 Jul 2026 07:19PM UTC

        NPM icon - stylized newspaper page

        Hello,

        Thanks for the suggestion!

        We are aware of different methods to distribute apps in a downloadable format outside of the Apple App or Google Play stores, but it is a more complicated process with a much smaller audience. While it is possible, we would prefer to focus our efforts on improving the site itself, which benefits all users regardless of which devices they use.

        You can find more details about the additional efforts we would need to support an app on our previous news post.

        Best,
        Aris
        OTW News Post Moderator

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        1. AnnyOnomous Sat 25 Jul 2026 12:22AM UTC

          I applaud your cautious approach as very wise. That AI attack reported this week? That is very sobering.

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        2. cffeebitter Mon 27 Jul 2026 01:54AM UTC

          I prefer that it's a website rather than an app, personally, it's more convenient.

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      4. The_Morning_Star Sun 26 Jul 2026 05:38PM UTC

        APKs are a pain to try to install, unfortunately. I've gotten an "this app was not installed!" when I've tried installing APKs in the past, even after trying different methods to get it to work.

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    5. PunkyMaySnark Sun 26 Jul 2026 12:51AM UTC

      The Android Developer Verification that might just get really jacked up by Google anyway (look up Keep Android Open if you don't know what I'm talking about, I've been trying to scream about it)

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      1. carrisa_lyna Sun 26 Jul 2026 06:34PM UTC

        I am aware on that case because I'm also a rooted maintainer for galaxy A127F and A135F who does kernel stuff and also providing root. It will heavily affect us even with people that aren't rooted,

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