Reddit turns text threads into AI-voiced videos

The feature, currently appearing on web browsers and slated for an iOS and Android rollout this Tuesday, allows users to toggle between traditional text and a generated video feed. These clips highlight text in real-time as synthetic voices read through original posts and community comments. Reddit spokesperson Rosa Kim described the initiative as an early attempt to gauge user interest in formats that feel authentic to the platform's community-driven nature.

CEO Steve Huffman previously signaled this direction during a recent earnings call, identifying the trend of third-party channels that use AI to narrate forum content. By integrating this functionality directly, Reddit aims to capture that engagement internally. While the tool simplifies access for those less familiar with forum interfaces, it faces potential hurdles regarding pronunciation accuracy and the selective curation of comments. The experiment will initially focus on a limited selection of existing posts before expanding, further signaling the company's commitment to video-centric features following the earlier introduction of video replies.