Why doesn't HN have a mobile app?

I think its much more convenient to access from a mobile app. My reddit usage grew massively when the reddit mobile came upto on par with other third party apps over last couple of years.

3 points | by kranirudha 6 hours ago

8 comments

  • al_borland 3 hours ago
    I just use the browser, it works well enough for me. There are apps people have made.

    Without ads, the incentives aren’t such that they should want to drive excessive engagement.

    [-]
    • PaulHoule 1 hour ago
      Most directly, if somebody replies to your comment and you get a notification about that and it results in an ad impression: ka-Ching!
    • kranirudha 2 hours ago
      That's fair. I guess incentive is the key.
  • vunderba 3 hours ago
    You can just add the site to your home screen on Android / iOS - that addresses the convenience point IMHO.

    I’m also not sure how an HN app (buried among the trillions of other in the respective app store) would necessarily be any more "discoverable" than the site itself.

    [-]
    • kranirudha 2 hours ago
      as PWA. That's fair actually. I forgot about that.
  • TimedToasts 5 hours ago
    If a mobile app results in higher Reddit-esque behavior then I'm permanently opposed to a mobile app.
    [-]
  • p1esk 3 hours ago
    What’s wrong with reading HN in a browser? What problem are you trying to solve?
    [-]
    • kranirudha 3 hours ago
      I'm not solving anything. Was just wondering why it doesn't exist. Cause I find it more convenient on mobile.

      Mostly from discoverability and experience wise.

  • chistev 4 hours ago
    It doesn't need one?
    [-]
    • kranirudha 4 hours ago
      I'd argue in favor of it though. I understand that most folks here might not prefer it, but it does make it more accessible and convenient.
      [-]
      • fullstick 23 minutes ago
        How is a mobile app you have to install from a third party more convenient and accessible than a website in a browser?
  • mac3n 6 hours ago
    > My reddit usage grew massively

    and that's a good thing?

    [-]
    • kranirudha 4 hours ago
      That's a good point. Bad for me I guess but should be good for product, no?

      I was thinking from a product standpoint, why wouldn't they want one if it increases usage.

  • Cider9986 4 hours ago
    [dead]