Reddit expands app advertising tools with AI campaigns and new attribution reporting beta

Reddit has introduced a new set of updates for app advertisers, expanding access to its AI-powered campaign tools while launching a beta test for a new attribution reporting system designed to provide broader visibility into app performance.

The update includes the rollout of Max campaigns for app ads, wider availability of App Event Optimization (AEO), and the introduction of Dual Attribution, Reddit’s first-party measurement initiative for app marketers.

Reddit is extending its automated Max campaigns to app advertisers after initially launching the format for traffic and conversion campaigns earlier this year.

The campaign type uses automation across targeting, creative rotation, placements, and budget optimization, while also using AI systems to evaluate ad impressions and audience relevance.

According to Reddit, early testing showed that Max campaigns for app ads delivered an average 15% reduction in cost per acquisition (CPA) alongside a 28% increase in results volume.

The company also highlighted advertiser tests showing lower install costs and reduced purchase CPAs.

Reddit is also expanding availability of App Event Optimization, moving the feature into general availability.

The product is designed to help advertisers optimize campaigns toward actions taking place after installation, including registrations, trial activations, and purchases.

Instead of focusing only on installs, the system uses machine learning models built around app event signals to identify users more likely to complete in-app actions.

Reddit said App Event Optimization has generated an average 22% improvement in CPA during testing.

The update comes as app activity on the platform continues to increase. Reddit reported that install volume from app campaigns rose 129% year-over-year between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026.

The company is also launching a beta program for Dual Attribution, introducing Reddit’s own first-party attribution reporting for app campaigns.

The feature combines Reddit attribution data, mobile measurement partner (MMP) reporting, and SKAdNetwork last-touch signals inside Ads Manager.

The move aims to address fragmentation in app measurement, particularly as traditional last-click attribution models become less representative of multi-step user journeys.

Under the new system, advertisers will be able to compare Reddit’s internal performance signals alongside third-party attribution data within a single reporting interface.

Reddit said the approach is intended to provide app marketers with additional visibility into how users discover, evaluate, and install apps through the platform.

The updates reflect Reddit’s broader push into performance advertising as it continues to expand app-focused campaign products and measurement capabilities. The platform reported reaching 126.8 million daily active users, while increasing investment in automation and attribution tools for advertisers.