Definition:
Access gating is the practice of restricting entry to content, services, or opportunities behind conditions such as payment, time limits, status, or behavioural compliance.
Usage Context:
Seen in subscription models, early access schemes, invite-only platforms, gated communities, and premium feature tiers.
Critical Note:
Access gating transforms participation into privilege. It conditions inclusion on ongoing compliance rather than need or contribution.
Related Terms:
Gatekeeping, Requirements Theatre, Accessibility Theatre, Platform Power, Consumer Lock-In