Reddit CEO Steve Huffman announces the introduction of paid communities starting in 2025, while existing ones remain free. It is still unclear how this change will affect volunteer moderators who maintain order in the communities…
After going public and facing the need to generate profit, Reddit is announcing changes to its business model. CEO Steve Huffman introduced plans to implement paid communities starting in 2025 during a video AMA session.
When asked about “new key features planned for Reddit in 2025,” Huffman responded, among other things: “Yes, paid subreddits.”
Existing Subreddits Will Remain Free for All Users
Huffman clarified that the system is still in development and that the payment model will apply exclusively to certain new types of communities, while existing ones will remain free for all users.
Reddit Considers Rewarding Moderators and Creators
The announcement has sparked discussions about its impact on existing users, many of whom value the platform for its open exchange of information. Huffman emphasized that Reddit will carefully maintain a balance between free and paid content to retain its current user base.
A key question remains regarding the role of moderators, who currently volunteer to maintain order in communities. Their contribution to the quality of discussions is significant, and it is unclear whether they will be willing to moderate paid communities without compensation. Reddit is exploring different reward models, but details are not yet available.
Speculation on the Payment System
Ars Technica speculates on how payments might work:
“A possible solution could be Reddit’s Contributor Program, launched in September 2023. Through this program, users can earn money based on their posts receiving awards and karma, as well as through collectible avatars and developed applications. According to Reddit, users can earn up to $0.01 per Gold Award received, depending on the amount of karma accumulated over the previous year. A minimum of 1,000 Gold Awards is required for withdrawal, amounting to $10.”
Intense Debates Expected
The platform already has experience with premium services through Reddit Gold, a subscription introduced in 2010 that allows ad-free browsing and access to the r/Lounge community. The new paid communities system could expand the offering of specialized content.
Reddit now faces the challenge of balancing community interests with new business objectives. Given past experiences with changes on the platform, intense discussions about this decision are expected.
