A16z: Discord’s evolution as a developer platform

From gaming platform to developer hub: the Discord journey

In 2009, Discord co-founder and CEO Jason Citron laid the foundation for what would become a massive online platform by creating tools and infrastructure for gaming. Discord currently boasts over 200 million monthly active users and has seen significant growth and development over the years.

Citron collaborates with a16z general partner Anjney Midha, who merged her company Ubiquity6 with Discord in 2021, to provide key insights into the complex process of community-driven product development. The shift from targeting primarily gamers to embracing developers signals a broader vision for Discord.

Discord’s Commitment to Platform Scalability

Discord’s commitment to platform scalability has been constant throughout its evolution. The platform is always open to expansion and adaptation, allowing it to grow and evolve with its user base. It’s this flexibility that allowed Discord to successfully transition from a gaming platform to a developer platform.

Introducing apps that can be embedded in Discord

Discord’s recent launch of its built-in app is an important step in its evolution. These new features make it easier than ever for developers to build on the platform and open up a new realm of possibilities. As Discord continues to expand its products and features, it’s clear that the platform is committed to fostering a vibrant and dynamic developer community.

Outlook: The future of discord

Discord’s transition from a gaming platform to a developer hub demonstrates the platform’s adaptability and willingness to meet the needs of its diverse user base. With the introduction of built-in apps and a continued focus on platform extensibility, Discord is poised to continue its rapid growth and development in the future.

Image source: Shutterstock

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