First, there was Clubhouse.
Now, there’s an influx of audio-based features on platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, and even Twitter – okay, so what does this all mean?
Are audio-based apps all the rage now?
Here’s our take on what audio-based features mean for you and if they have any staying power.
How Did It Start?
When we were locked down for a large chunk of 2020, Clubhouse was one of the apps that emerged from the situation very successfully. Bringing back spontaneity by utilising spur of the moment chats, Clubhouse was incredibly unique, and people loved it. (For more information on what Clubhouse is all about, check out our link here).
An app with no video feature whatsoever, Clubhouse is entirely audio based allowing people to join certain rooms to discuss topics that interest them, no matter how wacky, unique or niche they are.
Its popularity has gained attention from the social media giants, and now copycat features are popping up everywhere.
Who Has Joined In?
If you want to go live with an audio-only function, you’re in luck.
Facebook has recently introduced an audio feature that allows its users to communicate with each other called Live Audio Rooms, similar to Clubhouse, this feature focuses on members communicating in a chat room style set up.
Facebook hasn’t just stopped there though, they’re introducing a wide range of features that are purely audio-based, such as a podcast platform and soundbites (think TikTok, but for your ears).
If that’s not enough, LinkedIn has also announced that they are working on their own version of the fad. With a recently announced creator mode, we can see LinkedIn’s audio feature becoming a hub for those in business, hosting rooms filled with great advice, tips, and insights into industries.
It’ll be a great way for thought leaders to become even more prevalent in their chosen field, and we’re expecting it to help users connect and engage with their followers on a whole new level.
Finally, Twitter has also put itself in the ring.
Need more than 280 characters to get your point across?
How about 2 minutes and 20 seconds?
Twitters audio feature is allowing its users to post voice tweets instead, displaying as a play button next to a user’s tweet you can now voice your funny remarks instead of just typing them.
It doesn’t stop there, Twitter have also unveiled their own rival to Clubhouse called Twitter Spaces.
Very similar in its design, Twitter Spaces is a place for users to host discussions with their followers. When someone starts a space, they can either accept requests to join in or deny them entry and it’s similar in the fact that people can either listen along or can join in, depending on the subject.
You’ll see when someone you’re following has started a room up in the same section where the Fleet’s are (Twitters rival to stories) up the top of your feed.
One differentiating feature of Twitter Spaces is that, even if you’re not joining the conversation, you can still react to what the speakers are saying by sending an emoji for the hosts to see (think similar to the emoji reactions on Facebook and Instagram live).
Are these features just a fleeting fad? Or are they here to stay?
It’s hard to say.
2020 really shook up the way we communicate and being able to have spontaneous conversations through apps such as Clubhouse really filled a gap that people were missing because of things like social distancing and isolation.
While they’re all still in their early days we can see huge potential in audio-based apps, a place where thought leaders can come together and discuss big ideas with their audience.
Keep your eyes peeled for further developments as more platforms start to roll out these features.
