For years, millions of internet users have relied on Reddit as a quiet corner of the web defined by text threads, comment sections and deep community discussions. But behind the scenes, the tech leadership has been quietly watching those same text stories migrate to competing platforms, where creators turn them into viral short-form videos.
Now, the platform is launching a new trial across select mobile apps that allows users to experience popular discussions through synthesised audio and video formats instead of traditional reading.
Reddit Tests TikTok-Style Videos
Reddit recently revealed plans to breathe new life into its most viral discussions by introducing a new 'video Reddit' format, designed for background listening so people can catch up while busy with other chores.
Beginning Monday, the platform is launching a test run of these mixed-media posts within specific communities, aiming to discover which styles connect best with users and warrant wider expansion.
Back in July, the leadership team first outlined the narrated video project during an earnings call, where chief executive Steve Huffman explained to analysts that audiences were already engaging with Reddit content in this format across external apps.
External apps such as TikTok and Meta's Reels have long capitalised on this format, featuring creators who either voice popular Reddit threads themselves or use text-to-speech tools.
It is common to see these stories paired with unrelated background visuals, such as someone playing a video game or preparing a meal, while the text scrolls across the screen for viewers to follow along.
'There is an emerging content type elsewhere on the internet of, basically, podcasts where people read Reddit content,' Huffman explained on the call. 'I think this version of, like, listened-to or spoken Reddit can be really engaging, as well,' he added.
Reddit Turns Posts Into Audio
Speaking to TechCrunch, the company stressed that these initial trials are small and early-stage, designed to determine how useful these media formats actually are and whether they can be implemented without losing the platform's core identity. Whenever the feature is active, members will have the freedom to tap either a 'read' or 'play' option for any given thread.
For now, the trial will be limited to English-language content and will run within the official Reddit apps for iPhone and Android devices.
Text Posts Will Still Remain
Reddit emphasises that these new options will not replace standard text posts, meaning the original threads and comment sections will remain fully accessible for reading and replying.
The platform points out that some people might prefer listening to discussions while out walking or hitting the gym, whereas others will enjoy seeing written conversations transformed into a mix of sound and motion.
Reddit Expands Its Video Push
Experimenting with video is nothing new for the platform. Over the years, the company has rolled out native video hosting and tested different versions of short-form feeds. More recently, comment sections gained video support, which now accounts for more than 10% of all video uploads across the site.
As Reddit continues testing these fresh multimedia formats, the platform aims to bridge the gap between traditional reading and modern viewing habits. By giving users more flexibility in how they consume community discussions, the company hopes to keep its sprawling conversations engaging and relevant for audiences on the move.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Reddit testing with its new feature?Reddit is testing a new feature that allows users to experience popular discussions through synthesized audio and video formats.
- Will traditional text posts be replaced by the new video and audio formats on Reddit?No, traditional text posts will remain fully accessible for reading and replying.
- What is the purpose of Reddit's new video and audio format trials?The trials aim to determine how useful these media formats are and whether they can be implemented without losing the platform's core identity.
