Kate Mills 
Mar 13, 2024
Discord is taking a significant step forward in enhancing user interaction within its platform by introducing a new Embedded App SDK. Launching on March 18, this toolkit enables developers to craft interactive experiences that integrate seamlessly into Discord's chat interface. Previously, only a select group of developers had access to these tools, but this expansion will undoubtedly lead to a surge in creative and shared experiences within the platform.
One exciting aspect of this is the Activities feature, which has already allowed Discord users to enjoy various shared experiences like watching YouTube videos or playing games together, right within their chat conversations. The Embedded App SDK is poised to dramatically expand these offerings, potentially leading to a vast array of new applications and games being integrated into Discord chats.
In addition to this technological advancement, Discord is also reinvigorating its app pitch program. This initiative offers developers the opportunity to propose app ideas and possibly secure up to $30,000 in funding. The program has already borne fruit, funding diverse projects such as a coral reef cam, a city-building simulation, and an art portfolio app.
Another innovative feature in the works is a tool that allows users to add apps to their accounts, ensuring these embedded experiences are accessible across various servers and chats. This feature, scheduled for a beta release alongside the SDK, promises to further personalize and enrich the Discord experience.
These developments follow a period of restructuring for Discord, which included a significant workforce reduction. The company’s CEO, Jason Citron, explained these changes as strategic moves to strengthen Discord’s business foundations.
The platform is also exploring new revenue streams, such as a partnership program with game developers to sell themed avatars and profile effects. These initiatives signal Discord’s commitment to evolving and enhancing its platform, providing both users and developers with more tools and opportunities to engage and create.
