Reddit has begun testing a feature that allows users to read articles directly within its app, while also viewing comments from other Redditors at the bottom of the page. The change was announced on 10 September as part of a wider set of tools aimed at publishers.
The in-app reading function enables people to scroll through an article without leaving Reddit, effectively combining news content and community discussion in a single feed. A Reddit spokesperson, Courtney Geesey-Dorr, said that publisher paywalls will remain in place. This means that some articles will still require a subscription, though some media outlets may choose to share unlocked “gift” links or ease paywalls for Reddit users.
For readers, this integration aims to make browsing smoother while keeping discussions central to the Reddit experience. The company hopes this will encourage publishers to share more of their content on the platform.
Analytics and AI tools for publishers
Alongside the reading test, Reddit is introducing new backend tools designed to give publishers greater insight into how their content performs. These tools allow outlets to track where their stories are being shared, including specific subreddits, as well as engagement metrics such as upvotes and clicks.
The system bears some similarities to CrowdTangle, a Meta-owned tool that previously helped journalists and researchers monitor what was going viral on Facebook before it was shut down. By offering this level of transparency, Reddit is positioning itself as a valuable traffic source at a time when news outlets are losing visibility through traditional platforms like Google, partly due to the rise of AI-driven search.
Reddit is also allowing publishers to link their RSS feeds to the platform. This means stories can be imported automatically and then distributed across chosen subreddits. An AI-powered recommendation tool will further suggest which communities are best suited for particular articles, making it easier for publishers to reach the right audience.
Part of the Reddit Pro business platform
The new suite of tools is being rolled out through Reddit Pro, a business platform the company launched last year. Some publishers have already been testing these features on a trial basis. With this announcement, Reddit has opened applications for more outlets to join the beta programme.
By offering direct in-app article viewing, advanced analytics and automated content sharing, Reddit is making a bid to strengthen its role as a hub for both readers and publishers. While the feature is still in testing, it marks a significant step in how the platform could shape the way people consume and engage with news in the future.
