Dictionary.com “devastated” paid users by abruptly deleting saved words lists

Users of Dictionary.com are expressing their dismay after the platform unexpectedly erased their meticulously curated lists of favorite words. This abrupt action included the deletion of all user accounts and the removal of ad-free access options, even for those who had previously paid for such services. The website and its mobile applications, available for free on both Android and iOS, once included premium features through a paid app known as Dictionary.com Pro. This app allowed users to create accounts, use the dictionary without interruptions from ads, and access additional resources like grammar tips and rhyming dictionaries. However, these features have now been eliminated. Previously, users could also download offline dictionaries through the premium apps, which is no longer an option. Complaints regarding the functionality of Dictionary.com’s apps had begun circulating online about a year ago, with reports of users facing issues in upgrading to an ad-free version emerging around the same time. In recent months, users began reporting problems logging into their accounts and accessing saved words. This led to the eventual removal of the premium apps from both Google Play and Apple's App Store. As of late March, these apps had still been available for a download fee of $6, according to the Internet Archive’s Wayback Machine. One premium subscriber recalled reaching out to Dictionary.com’s support team, only to receive a message explaining that user accounts had been discontinued. The response indicated that the change was part of a new app update aimed at enhancing design, speed, and functionality, but unfortunately, the saved word lists could not be recovered due to a change in the underlying technology. Users have reported difficulties attempting to contact Dictionary.com for further clarification. Despite efforts by media outlets like Ars Technica to reach out to the company through various channels, no responses have been received. The situation has left many long-time users feeling frustrated and abandoned as their cherished word collections have been lost.