Reddit is starting a "limited alpha test" of verification for public figures, who will get a familiar gray checkmark added to their username.

Reddit is starting a limited test of verified profiles, which places a grey checkmark beside the username of a notable person or business.

CEO Steve Huffman said Reddit would scrap its r/popular default feed because it "gives the false impression of a singular Reddit culture."

Reddit (NYSE: RDDT) has delivered a stunning 2025 performance. Shares have surged year to date, marking one of the strongest debuts in recent tech IPO history. The social media platform turned profitable in spectacular fashion,

Online discussions are often dominated by a small group of active users, while the majority remain silent. This imbalance can distort perceptions of public opinion and fuel polarization.

Reddit is starting to test verified profiles, the company announced today. Users who are verified as part of this “limited alpha test” will have a gray checkmark next to their username “across profiles, communities, feeds, post detail pages, and search results.”