Reddit’s AI Strategy Targets Google Users, Not Just Scrollers
▼ Summary
– Reddit is focusing on attracting casual browsers and active seekers of answers, with CEO Steve Huffman emphasizing the role of Reddit Answers, an AI-powered chatbot, in providing quick, reliable information.
– Plans for deeper integration of Reddit Answers by 2025 include embedding it into the main search function, allowing users to type full queries, and introducing it to new users from their first visit.
– Reddit’s Q1 financial performance was strong, with revenue reaching $392.4 million (a 61% increase year-over-year) and daily active users growing by 31% to 108.1 million, projecting Q2 revenue between $410 million and $430 million.
Reddit is taking a strategic approach to attract two distinct types of users: those who browse casually and those actively searching for answers. CEO Steve Huffman recently highlighted this dual focus during the company’s first-quarter earnings call, emphasizing how Reddit Answers, their AI-powered chatbot, caters specifically to users looking for quick, reliable information rather than community engagement.
The platform has long been a hub for niche discussions, from baking sourdough bread to dissecting pop culture trends. But Reddit Answers targets a different audience—people who append “Reddit” to their Google searches to find authentic advice from real users. Since its beta launch in December, the feature has already amassed 1 million weekly active users, with recent expansions into Australia, the U.K., Canada, and India.
Currently accessible through the app’s navigation bar, Reddit plans deeper integration of Answers in 2025, potentially embedding it into the main search function. This would allow users to type full queries instead of just keywords, streamlining the experience. Huffman also mentioned exploring ways to introduce Answers to new users right from their first visit, helping them quickly discover the platform’s vast knowledge base.
Another key focus is improving visibility in external search results, ensuring users get concise, digestible answers directly from Reddit. This move could reduce reliance on Google, which has caused fluctuations in traffic due to recent algorithm changes. While Huffman acknowledged the unpredictability of search engines, he stressed that openness drives awareness, even if it comes with occasional disruptions.
Financially, Reddit’s performance has been strong, with Q1 revenue hitting $392.4 million—a 61% year-over-year increase. Daily active users grew by 31%, reaching 108.1 million. The company projects Q2 revenue between $410 million and $430 million, reflecting continued confidence in its growth trajectory.
By refining its AI tools and expanding accessibility, Reddit is positioning itself as both a community hub and a go-to resource for seekers of reliable, crowd-sourced answers. The strategy not only enhances user experience but also strengthens the platform’s independence from external search engines.
(Source: TechCrunch)
