THE NEWS WRAP: Reddit moves to tackle harassment

Online forum Reddit has announced new practices that aim to improve the way it deals with harassment.

In a blog post Reddit explained that it had been seeing different types of harassment as the way in which people use the internet has evolved over time.

Rather than promoting free speech, Reddit says its policy of openness had started to limit free expression. Last month a survey of over 15,000 Redditors found negative responses to comments made people less likely to contribute again or recommend the site to friends.

As a consequence Reddit is changing its policies in order to prohibit and prevent the harassment of individuals on the platform. Reddit users will now be able to email complaints to Reddit staffers who can then remove content and ban users from the site.

Apple denies HomeKit delays

Apple says the first HomeKit enabled devices will be released in June, denying reports that the launch of the company’s smart-home platform would be delayed until August or September, The Wall Street Journal reports.

A company spokesperson said it already has dozens of partners who have committed to launching HomeKit accessories and it is look forwarding to the first products being released next month.

Marketing startup Percolate raises $40 million

US-based startup Percolate,  which allows marketers to find and publish content on social networks, has raised $40 million in Series C funding, TechCrunch reports.

The round was led by Lightspeed Ventures Partners, with existing investors Sequoia Capital, GGV Capital, First Round Capital and Lerer Hippeau Ventures also participating.

Overnight

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is up 191.75 to 18,252.24. The Australian Dollar is currently trading at US81 cents.

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