Reddit contemplates cutting off Google and Bing to monetize data used by AI companies

Months after the dispute over API access pricing changes, The Washington Post reported that Reddit is considering cutting off Google, and forcing users to log in directly to access content. This move is contingent on whether Reddit can strike deals with generative AI companies to pay for its data.

If no agreement is reached, Reddit posts will no longer appear in search results on search engines such as Google and Bing. This decision follows Reddit's previous API pricing changes, which were designed to deter generative AI companies from using Reddit data to train large language models (LLMs) without any return for Reddit.

The Washington Post reports that Reddit has engaged in discussions with leading generative AI companies about payment for its data, according to an anonymous source. If no deal is reached, Reddit is considering blocking search crawlers from Google and Bing. This would inevitably decrease the site's visibility and visitor count. However, the source stated that Reddit believes the trade-off would be worthwhile, asserting that “Reddit can survive without search.”

This situation positions Reddit as a key player in shaping the future monetization of generative AI and the impact of the AI boom on various businesses.