JSON Formatter, a widely-used open-source Chrome extension for viewing and exploring JSON API responses, is shutting down open-source development. The creator is moving to a closed-source, commercial model with premium features and will inject adware into the commercial version. The final open-source version is preserved as "JSON Formatter Classic" on the Chrome Web Store for users preferring open-source tools.
Strategy
JSON Formatter Chrome Plugin Now Closed and Injecting Adware
Open-source JSON Formatter Chrome extension closes development to monetize via ad-supported closed-source model, forcing users to choose between legacy open-source or accepting adware.
Friday, April 10, 2026 12:00 PM UTC2 MIN READSOURCE: Hacker NewsBY sys://pipeline
Tags
strategy