Reddit: New AI feature turns text posts into videos with read-aloud function
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According to Mashable, Reddit is testing a feature that uses AI to convert text posts into video and audio formats. The feature begins rolling out on Monday in web browsers, with iOS and Android following on Tuesday. The platform aims to respond to the popularity of videos that read Reddit posts aloud — a format already generating massive reach on TikTok and YouTube.
“Bringing conversations to life”
“The experiment uses AI to create new audio and video formats and bring real human conversations to life, including multi-voice text-to-speech, subtitles, and visual templates,” a Reddit spokesperson confirmed to Mashable.
For now, the test is limited to manually selected English-language posts in specific subreddits. Users see a toggle above relevant posts that lets them switch between “Read” and “Play.” In “Play” mode, a TikTok-style video appears. An AI-generated voice reads the post and selected comments aloud while the text lights up. A note beneath the video marks the content as “Real conversation voiced by AI.” The original text posts remain available. Users can decide for themselves whether they want to read or listen.
Reddit wants to push video harder
Reddit wants to claim a share of a content format it has so far left to others. CEO Steve Huffman had already announced the feature in July during the Q2 Earnings Call. “We are working on a video Reddit experience that allows users not only to watch videos on Reddit, but to listen to posts, to listen to posts in the background,” Huffman explained.
The strategy fits into Reddit’s broader video push. Back in June, Reddit introduced video comments, allowing users to upload short clips as replies to posts. AI integration is also being accelerated: earlier this month, the platform expanded AI-powered moderation tools to all new subreddits.
Reddit frames the test around accessibility and flexibility. “We are testing whether these formats are useful and how Reddit can authentically scale these experiences, with the goal of understanding how different conversation formats can make Reddit more accessible and immersive in more moments,” the company said in a statement.
Whether Reddit rolls the feature out more broadly after the test phase depends on user feedback. The platform remains primarily text-based, but is clearly looking for ways to integrate video content more deeply without alienating its existing community.
