After launching in April, Airchat is making a significant change to its social app. The new version of the app focuses on asynchronous voice messages, similar to Clubhouse’s format. Users can join channels for specific topics and record voice messages or videos to respond to others.
A New Approach to Social Interactions
Airchat’s designer, Kyle Barber, explained that the initial launch was met with enthusiasm for topic-based groups. The company decided to double down on this concept and create a more focused environment where like-minded individuals can connect.
"We wanted to just double down on those and try to connect more like-minded people," Barber said in an interview with TechCrunch.
The new version of Airchat features channels for specific topics, allowing users to engage in conversations with others who share similar interests. This is a departure from the previous iteration, which featured a Twitter-like social feed.
Why Asynchronous Voice Messages?
Airchat’s decision to focus on asynchronous voice messages may seem counterintuitive at first glance. However, it offers several benefits over traditional text-based communication. For one, users can record and edit their responses before sending them, allowing for more thoughtfully crafted interactions.
Moreover, asynchronous voice messages provide a unique opportunity for self-expression and creativity. Users can experiment with different tones, inflections, and emotions to convey their ideas and perspectives.
The Challenges Ahead
While Airchat’s new approach has potential, it also raises several challenges. As the user base grows, conversations may become congested, making it difficult for users to engage with one another.
Airchat will face similar moderation issues as Clubhouse, where audio content is subject to abuse and harassment. To mitigate this risk, the company plans to implement industry-standard AI-based text moderation using its built-in transcription feature.
A History of Pivots
Airchat’s new version is not its first iteration. The company released its initial product in May 2023, but the founders – Naval Ravikant and Brian Norgard – rebuilt the app after receiving user feedback.
This latest pivot marks a significant shift in Airchat’s direction. By focusing on asynchronous voice messages, the company aims to create a more engaging and inclusive social environment for users.
A Leg Up on Clubhouse?
Airchat has an advantage over Clubhouse due to its built-in transcription feature. This allows for more accurate moderation and analysis of user-generated content.
By leveraging AI-based text moderation, Airchat can better identify and address potential issues before they escalate into full-blown problems.
Conclusion
Airchat’s pivot to asynchronous voice messages marks a bold new direction for the social app. By focusing on topic-based channels and built-in transcription features, the company aims to create a more inclusive and engaging experience for users.
As Airchat continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the platform addresses the challenges of moderation and user engagement. Will this latest pivot prove to be the charm, or will Airchat face similar obstacles as Clubhouse? Only time will tell.
Related Topics
Further Reading
- The Rise of Social Audio: How Platforms Are Revolutionizing the Way We Connect
- Airchat’s Initial Launch and Response to User Feedback
About the Author
Amanda Silberling is a senior writer at TechCrunch, covering the intersection of technology and culture. She has written for various publications, including Polygon, MTV, and NPR.
