Reddit, the social-networking-cum-viral-news website, has released an app specifically for its Ask Me Anything (AMA) feature. Running on iOS for now, this AMA app is a follow-up to another similarly-intended project that was launched back in January 2011, but failed to take off because of unresolved design issues, which resulted in lots of consumer complaints. Reddit has clearly learned from the 2011 experience, and are now taking the lessons to heart in creating an AMA app that should do the job this time.
What the new AMA app essentially does is enable new Reddit users to easily browse and follow content that are posted on the Reddit website. Reddit attracts lots of visitors everyday, and the AMAs it features (sometimes hosted by celebrities) regularly have high engagement levels, with millions of Reddit users participating in real time. However, some of the users, especially the new ones, may not find it easy accessing and keeping track of the AMAs they want to take part in.
This is where the AMA app comes in. It turns the dense, text-heavy interface of the website's AMAs into an easier, simpler-looking one. On top of that, the app includes navigation options that makes it easier for users to search and browse past AMAs.
Reddit has always had a solid and secure following online. But with this new AMA app, Reddit is taking a huge leap into mobile territory. Sure, there is a risk of turning off some of its hardcore (and unyielding) supporters, but developing the AMA app is a good step in the right direction, especially if they want to capture new users.
As of now, the AMA app is only available on iOS devices. However, Reddit is quick to note that an Android version is currently being finalized. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Android users should be able to install the app in their devices by the end of this week.
With the AMA app, Reddit is clearly busy with expanding its repertoire, or as the company puts it, expanding the user experience. If the app does become a hit with users, who knows what other mobile projects Reddit will venture into in the near future.
But now, the AMA app is a nice treat for Reddit users. Something they can really make full use of in enjoying the so-called “front page of the Internet.” Until a new Reddit app comes along, this AMA app will do.
