Reddit tests turning text posts into AI-voiced videos and audio

Reddit is experimenting with a new way for users to consume content on the platform by converting text posts into audio and video. As part of the test, select posts are being turned into videos in which AI voices read out the main post along with some of its comments. The text is highlighted on screen as it's narrated, and a caption beneath the video notes that it is a "real conversation voiced by AI."

As an example, The Verge points to an eight-year-old post in the r/boardgames community asking for good road-trip games for adults, which had drawn 101 responses. Instead of the usual text thread, the post now also offers a three-minute video featuring AI voices reading out the replies. Users can still switch between formats via a toggle at the top of the post labeled "Read" for text and "Play" for video. While the video format may be easier for people unfamiliar with internet forums, it could also introduce issues such as mispronunciations or misattributed comments.

Background

The move follows Reddit's recent shareholder letter, which said the company was "reimagining how users and communities connect, share, and consume content through a modernized video experience." On an earnings call, CEO Steve Huffman hinted at the experiment, saying Reddit was working on letting people listen to posts in the background. He pointed to an "emerging content type" of entire video channels featuring AI voices reading Reddit posts, adding that a listened-to version of Reddit "can be really engaging as well."

According to Reddit spokesperson Rosa Kim, the experiment is already live on the web and is set to begin rolling out on iOS and Android starting Tuesday. It will initially apply to a select set of existing posts, with plans to expand it over time as the company evaluates whether users find the new formats useful.