Reddit is rolling out several new updates to its iOS and Android apps to make it easier for users to find and participate in conversations on the platform. The company announced Wednesday that it is launching a new integrated media player with instant loading of comments and direct shortcuts to conversations. Given that a large part of Reddit's appeal is based on its ability to foster conversation across a large number of topics, it makes sense for the platform to take a conversation-first approach to its mobile app.
To create a more seamless flow between post types on Reddit, the company is introducing an integrated media player that users can swipe through to see comments and new content. Users can click on an image or video to access a new media player. Reddit says it's starting to make conversation navigation consistent across post types, since different ways to get to the conversation for each post type would prevent the conversation from flowing smoothly.
Image credit: Reddit
Additionally, when users click the comment button on a post in their feed, they are now taken directly to the beginning of the comment. Previously, users had to scroll down the post page to access comments. Reddit also introduced a context bar that sticks to the top of the page, allowing users to return to posts or dive into content with just one tap.
The release of the update comes as Reddit CPO Pali Bhat told TechCrunch that the company's product roadmap includes faster load times, additional tools for moderators and developers, and AI-powered language translation features. It will be held one week after the announcement.