Reddit has unveiled a new AI-based feature called Reddit Answers to improve searching and discovery. The feature is set to test with only a few users in America and will likely increase users' coverage shortly. Based on Reddit's current search solution, the tool uses AI models created in collaboration with OpenAI and Google Cloud.
Reddit Answers enables users to post questions and information that may be extracted from Reddit discussions and threads. It differs from most AI tools as it only utilizes Reddit content instead of searching through the web. For example, if a user enters a question asking how to fix a certain gadget, the AI creates tips and resumes based on the threads in this section and links to such threads.
The tool guides users to browse Reddit for more information instead of receiving AI-generated responses. Users can access it via the Reddit homepage, which will involve a conversational interface like chat interfaces, ChatGPT, and Perplexity.
Reddit Answers is a plan to help the platform end relying on Google for traffic. Over the years, Reddit has prevented search engines and AI bots from accessing its information and only permits restricted access through licensing. Self-searching for Reddit Answers is intended to bring active attention to the site and entice logged-out users, especially those creating accounts, thereby increasing the site’s monetizable users.
Reddit has noted that the ratio of logged-out users to logged-in ones has been outcompeting since late 2023 due to the better search result ranking on Google. The new feature would provide an avenue to transform such visitors into account holders who engage in actively searching for relevant products.
Reddit Answers is available only in English and for iOS and desktop platforms. The company intends to release the feature on the Android platform and extend support for more languages. Reddit also guarantees that this tool does not allow content that is not safe for work to be posted to ensure everyone's safety.
The head of Reddit, Steve Huffman, said that search would be the focus since ‘people need help finding their community.’ This artificial intelligence effort is consistent with Reddit’s overarching strategy to monetize its expanding active audience base while improving the user experience.