Reddit, the social media platform owned by Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, is launching a five-day live-streaming test. The broadcasting tool called Reddit Public Access Network is a software. It will allow users to stream a new subreddit called r/pan. Users will be able to tune into broadcasts directly from the subreddit. Although, top streams will appear on Reddit’s front page throughout the test period.
Users will be able to vote on their favourite stream just like they do with the upvote system on the main Reddit platform. The platform will tailor the homepage to suit the likes of the user. That way, they will only see things they are interested in and vote for. However, not everyone will be able to stream. Reddit says it wants to make the feature exclusive. They have gone ahead to create new policies that will guide users’ behaviours.
Reddit will closely monitor the content of the stream to ensure that it follows the guidelines of the site.
They explain that restricted content will not appear on streams. This especially includes content that promotes ideologies and behaviour that average Redditors may find offensive. Also, Reddit disallows hateful streams or streams that promote lies.
Interestingly, Reddit says the streaming is only allowed between 9 am and 5 pm during the five-day test. This is so that moderators can address any issues that come up from the post. This is an important move for Reddit considering the issues surrounding live-streaming. Mass shooters have used live streaming in America to stream gruesome attacks via social media. Platforms like Facebook and YouTube also faced serious backlash from these type of issues.
The test streaming test run is currently taking place on Reddit. By the way, other news about eligibility criteria and rules will be communicated in Reddit’s official blog posts.