Reddit empowers users to block ads for a year after feedback
- Users can block specific advertisers for a year by hiding unwanted ads.
- Reddit is trying to balance user satisfaction with the need for ad revenue.
- The increase in ads is expected to continue despite new user controls.
In a recent announcement, Reddit introduced new features that allow users to block specific advertisers for a year, addressing users' concerns over the increasing amount of unwanted advertisements on the platform. This significant change came a year after Reddit went public, emphasizing the company's commitment to enhancing user control over the ads they encounter. During a Reddit post on March 14, 2025, an employee confirmed that by clicking 'Hide' on an ad, future advertisements from the same advertiser will automatically be hidden from view for a year. Additionally, users will have the opportunity to re-hide ads after this period, thus reinforcing their ability to shape their advertising experience. The introduction of this ad-blocking feature is coupled with Reddit's ongoing efforts to balance ad revenue with user satisfaction. While Reddit has already implemented some controls, such as blocking ads related to specific topics like alcohol and gambling, the new option to block advertisers for an extended period indicates a shift towards more personalized ad management tools. However, there will be limits in place to prevent users from completely evading ads, highlighting the platform's need for ad revenue while still catering to user preferences. Despite these new features, concerns remain among users about the sufficiency of these measures, as reports have indicated that some users could still be inundated with irrelevant ads. Reddit is also expected to explore additional ad formats in the coming years, including increasing ad placements within comment sections. Reports show that advertising accounted for a staggering 92 percent of Reddit's revenue in 2024, reflecting the critical role that ad income plays in the platform's financial health. As Reddit continues to navigate the complexities of user experience and revenue generation, these developments reveal the challenges social media platforms face. The increasing prevalence of ads, coupled with the tightening grip on third-party app access, has made it more challenging for users to avoid advertisements entirely. Thus, while the new ad-blocking feature represents progress in user engagement, it is part of a larger trend where ads will likely become more integrated into the platform's design, further prompting discussions regarding user agency in the age of digital marketing.