# Reddit CEO says AI Overviews still haven't found a "win-win"

Published: 2026-08-01T12:48:22.085Z · Source: Ars Technica AI (https://arstechnica.com/ai/2026/08/reddit-ceo-on-ai-overviews-were-still-looking-for-that-win-win/)
Source date: 2026-08-01
Entities: ai-overviews, google, reddit

Reddit CEO Steve Huffman told investors on the company's Q2 earnings call that Google's AI Overviews have "yet to make a similar level of positive impact" as traditional search links, per Ars Technica. Reddit shares fell roughly 11% afterward despite revenue beating estimates, as U.S. logged-out traffic softened alongside AI referral volatility; Reddit's roughly $60 million-a-year data-licensing deal with Google is reported to be up for renewal amid the dispute.

Why it matters: A major AI-training data supplier publicly questioning whether its Google deal pays off is a signal other publishers weighing AI licensing terms will be watching closely.

## What this answers

**Has Google's AI Overviews hurt Reddit's traffic?**

Reddit CEO Steve Huffman said AI Overviews have "yet to make a similar level of positive impact" as traditional search links, and Reddit's stock fell roughly 11% after its Q2 earnings call flagged softer U.S. logged-out traffic tied to search referrals.

**Is Reddit renegotiating its data-licensing deal with Google?**

Reddit's roughly $60 million-a-year licensing deal with Google, signed in 2024, has been reported as up for renewal, with Huffman saying Reddit wants partnership terms that reflect the value AI systems draw from its data.


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