Reddit to limit most content to signed-in users
Initial tests are planned outside the US, with access through search engines and shared links expected to remain available without signing in.
Reddit intends to put most content behind a sign-in requirement as it moves toward serving mainly users with accounts, Axios reported. Testing is set to begin outside the US before the company extends the change more widely.
The precise restrictions remain under discussion, according to co-founder and CEO Steve Huffman. Axios reported that people without accounts would retain access to Reddit’s homepage and could still view content by following shared links or arriving through search engines.
Other ways of browsing, potentially including opening individual subreddits while signed out, could become unavailable. Huffman said the company’s reasons for the shift include improving users’ experience, strengthening advertising and preventing automated bots from scraping its proprietary data.
The move also reflects Reddit’s push for a more direct relationship with its users. Separately, the company announced that it is introducing social media-style “For You” feeds.
