Reddit tests AI-generated audio and video posts to win over social media audiences

Reddit is experimenting with a new format for its posts: AI-generated videos and audio clips that read posts and their comments aloud. The goal is to capture the audience of TikTok or YouTube channels that already monetize this content while making it more accessible.

A "Play" button to listen to or watch discussions

Since August 17, 2026, Reddit has been rolling out a test feature called "Play." On a selection of English-language posts, a button allows users to switch between the classic "Read" mode and this new format. By activating "Play," users access a portrait-format video or an audio file where a synthetic voice reads the original post and some of the comments. The text scrolls on screen, with words highlighted in real time, like a karaoke.

The experience is designed for those who want to consume content while doing other things: commuting, exercising, or doing household chores. It also targets new users, who may be less familiar with the forum structure. Reddit notes that the original post remains accessible and unchanged.

Why Reddit wants to internalize this format

During the July 2026 earnings call, CEO Steve Huffman explained that entire channels on TikTok, YouTube, or Reels specialize in reading Reddit posts, often using synthetic voices and background images (video games, cooking, etc.). These videos generate millions of views, but Reddit earns no revenue from them. By offering a native version, the platform hopes to capture this audience and its value.

"There’s a new type of content on the internet: podcasts where people read Reddit posts. An audio or spoken version of Reddit can be just as captivating." — Steve Huffman, Reddit CEOTranslated from French

A limited test, with challenges to address

The experiment is currently highly controlled. Reddit manually selects the converted posts, primarily in English, and the rollout began on the web before reaching iOS and Android apps. A spokesperson describes the test as "early and limited," intended to assess the format’s usefulness.

• Synthetic voices may mispronounce technical terms, usernames, or community-specific slang.
• The selection of comments read by the AI may not reflect the most relevant responses.
• The format does not replace the original post, which remains viewable.

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A broader strategy to modernize Reddit

This initiative is part of a stated effort to modernize the video experience on the platform. In June 2026, Reddit already introduced video replies in comment threads, which now account for over 10% of video posts. The current test could be extended to more existing posts if user feedback is positive.

Reddit is betting on AI to transform its text-based content into audio and video formats, a direct response to the rise of external creators already leveraging its discussions. The question remains whether users will adopt this "spoken" version of the platform, and whether AI can accurately convey the spirit of the original exchanges.