Reddit plans to make account sign-in the primary way to use the platform

Reddit plans to move to a model in which users will primarily browse the platform after signing in to an account. Changes will begin to be tested in the coming months in select markets outside the U.S.

This was announced by Reddit CEO Stiv Haffman.

The platform has not yet determined which content will remain accessible without signing in. In the message, its head emphasized the importance of keeping the front page open and the ability to view posts via links from search and other sites.

Why Reddit wants more signed-in users

Almost the entire Reddit could be viewed without signing in. Now the platform wants to become more personalized so users can find interesting communities and discussions more quickly.

Reddit also aims to get more people involved: joining communities, voting, and commenting already require signing in.

Another reason is the advertising business. A larger number of users signed into accounts will allow showing them more relevant ads. In addition, the message notes that the change will help adapt to new regulatory requirements in different countries.

According to Haffman, the vast majority of unauthorized access to its data, including automated scraping, happens through viewing without signing in.

Reddit plans to continue licensing its content corpus. In the CEO’s message he explained that commercial agreements allow setting rules for the use and display of data, while unauthorized scraping deprives the platform of such control.

Will Reddit require real names — and what will happen to privacy on the platform

Reddit stressed that the shift to signed-in usage does not mean requiring users to provide their real names or reveal their identities.

The platform has also redesigned and is relaunching an incognito mode in the app. According to the company, it will allow viewing content and searching for information without affecting the main account. Posting or commenting in this mode is not possible.

After signing in, users will also be able to opt out of personalization.

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