Reddit has announced the launch of a new AI search tool called Reddit Answers, designed to help users find information more easily on the platform. This tool responds to queries by generating clear and concise answers along with links to the sources of information, similar to other AI search products. However, what makes Reddit Answers unique is that it pulls information directly from the Reddit community, allowing users to bypass Google and get answers straight from the source.
Currently, Reddit Answers is available for a "limited number of users" in the United States and English-speaking regions, accessible via the web and iOS versions, with an Android version in development. Reddit plans to expand this tool to more languages and regions in the future.
In the beta version, the interface of Reddit Answers is simple and intuitive, allowing users to input questions and the system provides a series of related suggested searches. For example, asking for "tips for flying with a baby for the first time" will quickly generate a list with hyperlinks that direct users to the original posts containing the information. Users can also see the source of the answers, ensuring transparency and credibility of the information.
Although Reddit Answers provides more concise responses, users can still choose to click on detailed links for further exploration. However, reporters noted that while Reddit Answers excels in organizing information and quickly providing succinct answers, the AI-generated summaries may contain some inaccuracies, especially when dealing with the latest updates. For instance, when testing with a question about the recent NFL game results, the system returned data from weeks ago, possibly indicating that the tool is not fully prepared yet.
The launch of Reddit Answers demonstrates Reddit's intention to enhance the way users search for and access information, encouraging them to rely more on its platform. While this tool is very useful for general topics, Google still holds an advantage for obtaining the latest information. As the tool continues to be optimized, Reddit Answers could become a powerful complement for users seeking information.
