Reddit Tests TikTok-Style Audio and Video for Popular Posts

Reddit is testing a new way to experience popular posts without reading every word on screen. The platform is turning selected text-based posts into audio and video experiences, taking inspiration from a format already popular on TikTok and Instagram Reels.

The experiment gives users the option to read a post normally or press play and consume it in a more passive format.

Key Takeaways

• Reddit is testing audio and video versions of selected posts.
• The experiment is available on the Reddit iOS and Android apps.
• Testing currently focuses on selected English-language content.
• Users can choose between reading a post and playing its audio/video version.
• Original posts and comment sections will remain available.
• Reddit is testing whether the format feels natural enough to expand across the platform. 

What Is Reddit’s New Audio and Video Feature?

Reddit is experimenting with converting some popular text posts into content people can watch or listen to.

When the feature is available, users will see an option to “read” or “play” the post. Choosing play presents the story through audio or a combination of audio and video. 

The feature is currently a limited test rather than a full Reddit-wide launch.

Why Is Reddit Turning Text Posts Into Videos?

Reddit stories already have a large audience outside Reddit.

On TikTok, Instagram Reels, and similar platforms, creators regularly turn Reddit stories into short videos using narration or text-to-speech. These clips are sometimes paired with gameplay, cooking footage, or other visuals while the story is read aloud. 

Reddit now wants to explore that behavior directly within its own app instead of leaving the format entirely to third-party creators.

Can You Listen to Reddit Posts in the Background?

Background listening is one of the ideas Reddit is exploring.

The company sees audio as useful when reading isn’t convenient, such as while walking, exercising, or completing other activities.

This could make longer Reddit discussions work more like short podcasts rather than traditional social posts.

Will Video Replace Normal Reddit Posts?

No. Reddit says the original text post will remain available.

Users will still be able to read the post, open its comments, vote, and participate in the discussion normally. Audio and video are being tested as additional ways to consume the same content rather than replacements for Reddit’s existing format. 

Who Can Try the New Reddit Experience?

Reddit is beginning with selected English-language posts across certain communities.

The experiment will run through Reddit’s iOS and Android apps. Reddit plans to use these early tests to determine which types of posts work well in audio and video before deciding whether the experience should expand further.

Why Does This Update Matter?

Reddit has traditionally been built around text and community discussions, while platforms such as TikTok have centered their experiences around easily consumable video.

The new experiment brings those two formats closer together.

If users respond positively, Reddit could give popular stories a second life as watchable or listenable content while keeping the conversations that made those posts popular in the first place.

Conclusion

Reddit isn’t becoming TikTok overnight. Instead, it is testing whether some of its best-known text content can work in formats people already enjoy elsewhere.

The key difference is that users won’t be forced to abandon traditional Reddit posts. They can continue reading normally or choose audio and video when that format is more convenient.

FAQs

1. What is Reddit testing in August 2026?
   Reddit is testing audio and video versions of selected text posts, allowing users to watch or listen instead of only reading them. 
2. Is Reddit launching a TikTok-style video feed?
   The current experiment focuses on turning selected Reddit posts into playable audio and video experiences. It is an early test rather than a platform-wide replacement for Reddit’s traditional feed.
3. Can Reddit posts be played as audio?
   Yes. Reddit is testing a listening option designed for situations where users may prefer hearing a post rather than reading it. 
4. Will Reddit remove the original text posts?
   No. The original text and comments remain accessible alongside the new formats. 
5. Where is Reddit testing the feature?
   The initial experiment covers selected English-language content through Reddit’s iOS and Android apps.