Google’s AI Search Feature ’AI Mode’ Threatens Reddit Traffic by Summarizing Content Directly

Google’s newly launched AI Mode transforms the traditional search experience by providing AI-generated answers directly within the search interface. Powered by a customized version of the Gemini 2 model, the feature aggregates and summarizes content from multiple sources—including Reddit—without requiring users to visit the original sites. This shift could significantly reduce referral traffic to platforms like Reddit, as users get instant, reader-friendly answers.

Initially rolled out to U.S.-based Google One AI Premium subscribers in early 2025, AI Mode will soon be available to all U.S. users, with a global expansion planned later this year. Google positions the feature as a frontier capability, emphasizing its ability to handle complex queries and deliver human-like responses.