Reddit recently announced that it has introduced a new feature that allows users to translate posts into eight different languages. This feature is available on Reddit’s iOS or Android apps and on the web when users are logged out. The supported languages for translation are English, Spanish, German, French, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, and Swedish.
To test this feature, a user tried it out by looking at a post in r/France, which was in French. When logged out on the web, the user was able to translate the post into English by clicking the “Translate” link at the top left of the post. The “Translate” link was also visible when the user was logged in on the iOS app.
It’s important to note that the user couldn’t verify the quality of Reddit’s translation since they don’t speak French. However, according to a comment from a Reddit admin, the company is currently using “Google services for translations in a manner consistent with our privacy policy.” The translated post in English appeared to be fine to the user.
While users can currently translate individual posts, full translation of threads is not yet available. Reddit has started experimenting with translating the comments under posts, but only on iOS and Android. However, the admin’s post suggests that Reddit’s plan is to enable full translation of posts and comments, making the entire conversation experience on Reddit multilingual.
In addition to the translation feature, the admin’s post also mentions upcoming changes to Reddit’s coins system. They inform users that the previous coins system will soon be deprecated, meaning the ability to thank someone for giving gold will no longer be available. The last day coins will work is Tuesday, September 12th. Reddit has already deprecated the ability to give awards on the Old Reddit design and the “mobile desktop experience,” which likely refers to the mobile web.
While details about the new awards system have not yet been shared, Reddit has promised that it will be introduced in the future. Evidence found in Reddit’s Android app suggests that the new system may allow users to convert gold or Reddit karma into real money. However, this potential replacement has raised concerns about the monetization of Reddit and its impact on the community.
In conclusion, Reddit’s new translation feature allows users to translate posts into eight different languages. While full translation of threads is still being experimented with, Reddit aims to make the whole conversation experience on the platform multilingual. Additionally, the previous coins system will soon be deprecated, making way for a new awards system, the details of which are yet to be revealed. The potential ability to convert gold or Reddit karma into real money has sparked discussions about the future monetization of Reddit.