OpenAI will train its AI model using content from Reddit, as announced by both companies. Reddit described itself as a significant platform for online discussions, expressing that this collaboration will broaden the types of data available for OpenAI’s extensive language model (LLM) while improving user interaction on the site. The partnership aims to equip Reddit with advanced AI features for its users and moderators, while simultaneously enabling OpenAI to enhance its understanding of and access to Reddit content, particularly regarding current events.
Stock Market Reaction
Following the announcement, Reddit’s shares (RDDT) experienced a brief surge of over 14% in after-hours trading. The company’s stock had commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange on March 21. In a footnote included in its blog post about the partnership, OpenAI revealed that CEO Sam Altman has a stake in Reddit. The arrangement was reportedly initiated by Brad Lightcap, OpenAI’s chief operating officer, and received approval from its independent board.
Reddit’s Value in Online Discourse
Reddit co-founder and CEO Steve Huffman commented on the significance of the platform, stating, “Reddit has become one of the internet’s largest open archives of authentic, relevant, and always up-to-date human conversations about anything and everything.” He emphasized that integrating Reddit content into ChatGPT aligns with their vision of fostering a connected internet, enabling users to discover more relevant information and helping new users find communities within Reddit.
Integration of Reddit Data
As part of the collaboration, OpenAI will utilize Reddit’s Data API to incorporate content from the platform into ChatGPT and potentially other undisclosed products. This initiative will also empower Reddit to create innovative AI features leveraging OpenAI’s technology, while establishing OpenAI as an advertising partner for Reddit.
Statements from OpenAI
Brad Lightcap expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with Reddit to enhance ChatGPT with uniquely timely and relevant information, and to explore the possibilities to enrich the Reddit experience with AI-powered features.” However, OpenAI refrained from making further comments regarding the partnership, and Reddit did not respond to inquiries from Decrypt.
Recent Developments in AI
The announcement of the OpenAI and Reddit partnership coincided with significant updates from both OpenAI and Google related to their AI tools. OpenAI unveiled enhancements to ChatGPT, including a new, accelerated model known as GPT-4o. Meanwhile, Google showcased various new AI features during its annual I/O event, particularly under the Gemini brand, which included improvements to its suite of workplace applications.
Previous Collaborations and Investigations
This agreement between OpenAI and Reddit is not the first time the platform has capitalized on its vast library of discussions. In February, Reddit formed a partnership with Google that granted the tech company access to its extensive content database. This collaboration prompted an investigation by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which Reddit disclosed in the following month. The FTC’s inquiry focuses on the potential sale, licensing, or sharing of user-generated content with third parties for training AI models, with Reddit asserting that it has not engaged in any unfair or deceptive practices.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The announcement of the partnership between OpenAI and Reddit sparked criticism on social media, particularly from individuals concerned about the more contentious communities present on the platform. Trustswap CEO Jeff Kirdeikis voiced his apprehensions on Twitter, suggesting that OpenAI may exhibit bias as a result of this collaboration. Other users echoed similar sentiments, with comments highlighting concerns about misinformation and bias, describing the partnership as a potential disaster in the making.
