Discord introduces Embedded App SDK, empowering developers to create games and apps within the chat platform, App pitches initiative also reinstated

Discord is set to revolutionize its platform by enabling developers to create new games and apps directly within its chat app. While a limited selection of minigames and apps has been available to Discord users for some time, the introduction of the Embedded App SDK on March 18th will grant access to all Discord developers, empowering them to build specialized embedded apps.

Utilizing Discord's Activities feature, apps like YouTube and minigames such as poker have already found a place within the platform, providing users with interactive experiences. However, these offerings were previously restricted to select developers. With the Embedded App SDK, Discord aims to democratize access to its Activities section, paving the way for a plethora of new minigames that can be seamlessly integrated into Discord chats.

Discord expressed its commitment to fostering a vibrant developer ecosystem, emphasizing its vision for Discord to become the premier destination for developers to create, share, distribute, and monetize their creations. By opening up its platform to a wider array of developers, Discord seeks to facilitate innovation and community engagement.

In addition to enabling developers to create embedded apps, Discord is experimenting with a feature that allows users to add apps to their accounts for seamless integration across servers. This experiment, along with the launch of the app SDK, is scheduled to commence on March 18th.

Furthermore, Discord is reinstating its app pitches initiative, providing developers with an opportunity to pitch prototype app ideas and potentially secure funding of up to $30,000. Last year's winners included AI tools, an app for artists, a coral reef cam app, and a city-building minigame.

These developer-focused enhancements come on the heels of Discord's recent announcement regarding employee layoffs. Despite this restructuring, Discord remains committed to enhancing user growth and engagement through innovative developer experiences, including partnerships with game developers to offer themed avatars and profile effects.

Discord is reinstating its app pitches initiative, providing developers with an opportunity to pitch prototype app ideas and potentially secure funding of up to $30,000