Discord is a free chat software used mostly by gamers to communicate with other players from around the world.
While surely there are other apps like Discord, it has such a commanding presence (and millions of users) that it’s become the go-to platform for voice, text and video communication.
Discord has no plans of bringing in advertisements as a way to generate income. Selling user’s data to third party sources is out of the picture as well. You’ll be left wondering how the company can afford to stay afloat and give people a means to communicate easily with others.
The free-to-use system leaves people wondering, how does Discord make money? Well, here’s the answer.
Discord Nitro
Nitro currently has two subscription types- the classic plan and the current plan.
The main difference between these two is that current Nitro subscription gives users access to a library of games and a wealth of other things, including sharing in full HD, avatar animations, custom emojis and others for $9.99 a month, while classic is minus the games for $4.99 a month.
Game Store
Discord has just released a game store where users can download and play games. Nitro subscribers receive free titles, but they’re available to buy even if you’re not a paying customer.
The company takes a small percentage of the total sales and the rest goes to the developers.
Cosmetics
Discord users can purchase unique customization options to make their Discord experience better. Some of these include emojis, skins, sound packs and more.
These ‘cosmetic’ additions don’t really make a difference, but users can have fun and show their support to the platform this way.
Discord Merchandise
Discord-themed hats, sweatshirts and t-shirts are available to buy on the platform, with proceeds going directly to the company.
Last but not the least, Discord is funded by venture capitalists in investments from big names such as Greenoaks Capital, Tencent, Index Ventures, IVP, Technology Opportunity Partners, Firstmark and many more.
