Reddit plans to unify its search interface because it seems to develop into a search engine

With search in the present day so stuffed with AI slop and websites spamming search engine optimization tips, it’s common for individuals to append “reddit” to their queries in hopes of discovering helpful solutions to their questions. Google has tried to combine outcomes from Reddit in its search interface, and taking discover of the development, Reddit has been experimenting with its personal AI search as nicely. However the firm has loftier ambitions: it needs to develop into the go-to search engine individuals use.

Reddit’s CEO, Steve Huffman, stated as a lot throughout its second-quarter convention name on Thursday: “Reddit is among the few platforms positioned to develop into a real search vacation spot. We provide one thing particular, a breadth of conversations and data you possibly can’t discover anyplace else.”

Huffman famous that Reddit’s search perform has greater than 70 million weekly customers, and its AI-powered Q&A product, Reddit Solutions, is now utilized by 6 million individuals.

Reddit Solutions is presently obtainable in a dozen international locations, and the corporate plans to broaden it globally in addition to give it outstanding placement within the web site’s interface. The corporate ultimately needs to unify the core search perform with Reddit Solutions, and redesign its app to have the search field be extra prominently seen.

“We’re unifying these [Reddit search and Reddit Answers] right into a single search expertise, and we’re gonna convey that entrance and heart within the app. So, whether or not you’re a brand new consumer opening the app for the primary time or a returning consumer opening the app, that search field shall be current instantly,” Huffman stated on the decision.

Individuals are more and more being offered chat-styled search interfaces from merchandise like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s new AI mode. Reddit understandably believes that tapping its wealthy trove of consumer posts and feedback to assist individuals discover solutions will assist make its search perform extra helpful.

Reddit reported a constructive second quarter, with income leaping 78% to $500 million from a yr earlier. The corporate launched two new advert instruments, which let entrepreneurs use Reddit knowledge to identify developments, and leverage feedback about manufacturers of their campaigns.