Reddit plans to test a login requirement in a small number of overseas markets in the coming months. The company is moving toward an experience that keeps users signed in, but it has not confirmed whether or when the requirement will expand globally.
Alongside that change, Reddit is bringing a rebuilt incognito mode back to its mobile app. Users will be able to browse without participating, while posting and other interactions will require logging in.
Why Reddit Wants Users to Log In
Reddit says requiring an account will help it personalize the content people see around their interests. The company wants users to discover and join more communities, then participate through comments, votes, and other interactions.
The proposed change also addresses business priorities. Reddit cites AI bot scraping as another reason for moving toward mandatory login. It says a signed-in experience will help protect its proprietary user data and create better advertising and monetization opportunities.
These are Reddit’s stated goals for the change. Testing will begin in selected markets before any confirmed global expansion.
What Happens to Anonymous Browsing?
Reddit says the login requirement will not change its approach to anonymity. Users will not need to provide their real names or identify themselves.
The account creation process will also stay the same. Reddit says it will not ask for additional information beyond what its existing sign-up process requires.
For people who prefer to read without interacting, the company plans to restore incognito browsing in the mobile app. That gives users a way to scroll through discussions without posting or engaging with others.
How Reddit’s Incognito Mode Will Work
The rebuilt incognito mode will offer read-only access. Users will be able to view content, but they will not be able to publish posts or interact with content and other users.
Reddit says these restrictions are intended to keep incognito browsing private. For users who mainly follow discussions without contributing, the mode preserves an option to read through threads.
The distinction is between browsing and participation: incognito mode supports reading, while an account is required to take part.
Where Mandatory Login Testing Will Begin
Reddit plans to start testing the login requirement in a few overseas markets over the coming months. A worldwide launch has not been confirmed.
The initial testing plans therefore do not establish that every Reddit user must immediately sign in to browse. The company’s direction is toward mandatory login, with read-only incognito access returning to the mobile app.
FAQ
Is Reddit making login mandatory worldwide?
Reddit plans to test mandatory login in a few overseas markets. It has not confirmed whether or when the requirement will launch globally.
Can I browse Reddit without posting or commenting?
Reddit is bringing a rebuilt incognito mode back to its mobile app for read-only browsing. Posting and other interactions will not be available in that mode.
Will Reddit require my real name to create an account?
Reddit says users will not need to provide their real names or identify themselves. Its sign-up process will not require any additional information.
