Reddit rolls out subreddit chatrooms – what could possibly go wrong?

Ahh, I remember the halcyon days of the late-90s internet, where strangers from all over the globe would meet in AOL chat rooms and type “A / S / L” at each other over and over again. Well, Reddit is looking to bring this era back with Reddit Chat, a feature that’s being rolled out across subreddits.

In a blog post on the site, u/ityoclys analyzed their time with the feature. For the past year, around 7,000 people have had a chance to test out the chat feature. The reason for starting Reddit Chat – according to the company at least – was that “most people didn’t personally know other [R]edditors.”

In other words, it was a community-based decision.

My opinion? It’s more likely a move to improve engagement, as I’m sure droves of individuals leave the site if they want to have a direct conversation. If done well, Reddit Chat might make them stick around.

An example of what the chat feature looks like on mobile (credit: Reddit)

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The post is, unsurprisingly, very positive about the feature, with one of the takeaways from u/ityoclys’ time using it being that “people are good” – I’m not so sure is true to be honest.

Still, chatrooms played an integral role in my life growing up and I have fond memories of typing away to strangers on the internet. Hell, I actually have some real-life friends I met on forums.

An example of how the chat looks (credit: Reddit)

There’s definitely some potential for this to be a good thing. While large subreddit chats might quickly turn toxic (I’m looking at you r/funny), I bet that there’ll be some genuinely interesting discussions happening on more niche parts of the site.

The success of this really depends on how well Reddit mods are able to police people flinging abuse, something they’ve struggled with in the past. I guess what I’m saying is we’ll see.

There’s no set date when specific subreddits will receive the feature, so keep your eyes peeled.

Story by Callum Booth

Callum Booth is a freelance journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of TNW, where his reporting (show all) Callum Booth is a freelance journalist with over a decade of experience. Previously, he was the Managing Editor of TNW, where his reporting was cited widely, including in VICE, the FT, and the BBC. Callum’s writing has appeared in The Verge, The Daily Telegraph, Time Out, and many more. He covers the full spectrum of technology, with a particular focus on how it shapes our daily lives. And a lot of regulation stuff too. Outside of work, Callum’s an avid bookworm, a Fisherman’s Friends addict, and resolutely unshaven. Follow him on Twitter @CallumBooth or visit www.callumbooth.net.