Facebook seeking to launch its own version of Clubhouse
- Launched less than a year ago, the digital audio app has become very popular because of the Covid-19 pandemic
- The app allows people to drop into different 'rooms' to discuss a wide range of topics
Clubhouse has skyrocketed in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic, as people use it as a way to connect while stuck inside. Photo: AFPFacebook is looking to get into the audio social networking scene that has seen Clubhouse rocket to popularity, the New York Times reported on Wednesday.
Executives at Facebook have ordered employees to create a version of Clubhouse, an app which lets users drop into virtual “rooms” to voice-chat about any topic, the New York Times said, citing unnamed people familiar with the situation.
Clubhouse has attracted an array of big names, from celebrities to Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg himself, who stopped in on the app recently to talk about augmented and virtual realities.
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Clubhouse exploded in popularity during the coronavirus pandemic when people could not get together in person -- but now the once-niche platform has far higher goals.
Launched less than a year ago, Clubhouse -- which recently encountered censorship trouble in China -- is looking to establish itself as the standard-bearer for digital audio.
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The concept is simple: once you’re invited to join, you can start or listen to conversations in digital “rooms,” ranging from a major talk by someone famous to a chat within a small group.
The app, currently only available on Apple devices, doesn't have any posts, photos, or video - only audio.
A Facebook spokeswoman was quoted as saying the internet firm has “been connecting people through audio and video technologies for many years and (is) always exploring new ways to improve that experience for people.”