Reddit begins testing an AI-powered search tool, taking on Google

The AI chatbot works similar to Gemini or ChatGPT. (Image credit: Reddit)

Think of how Google Gemini and ChatGPT respond to users’ queries, but this tool is made by Reddit. The key distinction between Reddit Answers and Google Gemini or other AI chatbots is that the Reddit-made chatbot sources its information solely from posts found on Reddit, not from across the web.

For example, if a user asks Reddit Answers how to repair a Mac, the AI tool will respond with a bullet-point list of tips, summaries, and quotes from relevant Reddit posts. Users can then tap on links in the answers to go directly to the related Reddit posts.

With Reddit Answers, the social media platform continues to reduce its dependency on Google. Since the feature sources information directly from Reddit, users can bypass Google or OpenAI’s ChatGPT to find relevant communities and discussions. Over the past few months, Reddit has been blocking major search engines and AI chatbots from accessing recent posts and comments unless the search engine pays a fee. Currently, Google is the only search engine that still displays Reddit results.

Reddit Answers represents a new initiative by the company to enhance how users search for information on the platform. The company describes Reddit Answers as part of its “longer-term vision to improve the search experience” on its social network. Reddit CEO Steve Huffman recently emphasised that search will be a “focused investment” for the company in 2025.

Built on Reddit’s existing search architecture, Reddit Answers uses AI models from OpenAI and Google Cloud. The company has data-licensing agreements with both OpenAI and Google, allowing them to pay Reddit for using its data to train their AI models.

Question, meet Answers. 👋

Starting today, we’re rolling out a limited test in the U.S. of Reddit Answers—an AI-powered way to get the information, recommendations, and hot takes you only go to Reddit for. https://t.co/jPBdqEd2JL

— Reddit, Inc. (@Reddit) December 9, 2024

Once regarded as one of the darkest corners of the internet, Reddit has evolved to become one of the last major platforms for unfiltered discussions and a trusted source of news and entertainment. With more users than ever flocking to Reddit, the company is focused on monetising its user base by introducing more personalized features and encouraging users to create accounts on the platform.

Currently, Reddit Answers is only available in English for iOS and desktop users. However, the company plans to expand the feature to Android users and support additional languages in the future.