Reddit, the popular online forum site, has launched a new conversational AI feature called Reddit Answers, allowing users to ask questions and receive concise summaries of relevant responses and threads across the platform. This move marks a significant step towards competing with AI providers like OpenAI's ChatGPT and Perplexity, as well as challenging Google's search engine dominance.

The feature, currently available to a limited number of users in the U.S. and only accessible in English, aims to provide a more streamlined and efficient way for users to find the information they're looking for on the platform. By leveraging AI technology, Reddit Answers can curate relevant snippets and answers from real users, making it easier for users to get quick and concise answers to their questions.

Reddit's decision to develop an in-house conversational AI feature is likely a response to the growing popularity of AI-powered chatbots and search engines. Companies like Google and OpenAI have already been surfacing information from Reddit users' posts in their AI features, thanks to partnerships with the platform. By having its own conversational tool, Reddit can better control the user experience and provide more value to its users.

The feature is powered by Reddit-built tech, which integrates models from OpenAI and Google Cloud. This collaboration is a testament to Reddit's commitment to improving the search experience on its platform, making it faster, smarter, and more relevant. According to Reddit, the goal is to provide users with a new way to get "the information, recommendations, discussions, and hot takes" they're looking for from "real conversations and communities across all of Reddit."

Reddit Answers is not the only AI-powered feature the platform is working on. Earlier this year, Reddit co-founder and CEO Steve Huffman teased the launch of AI-powered search result pages. The company is also using AI to power translation and offer AI-powered insights for brands. This increased focus on AI technology demonstrates Reddit's ambition to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

The implications of Reddit Answers are significant, as it has the potential to change the way users interact with the platform. By providing a more conversational experience, Reddit can increase user engagement and attract new users who are looking for quick and concise answers to their questions. Moreover, this feature can help Reddit challenge Google's search engine dominance, as users often add the keyword "reddit" to their search queries.

As Reddit continues to roll out Reddit Answers to more users and countries, it will be interesting to see how the feature evolves and improves over time. With its own AI models and partnerships with leading AI providers, Reddit is well-positioned to become a major player in the conversational AI space.

In conclusion, Reddit's introduction of Reddit Answers marks a significant milestone in the company's efforts to improve the user experience and stay competitive in the tech industry. As AI technology continues to shape the future of online interactions, Reddit's conversational AI feature is poised to play a major role in shaping the platform's future.