Clubhouse introduces text options in its voice rooms

Clubhouse has introduced a new feature ‘In-Room Chat’, which enables its users to interact by using text in voice rooms. With the introduction of this service, the social audio app hopes to offer another ‘touchpoint’ for its creators to connect with their audiences in a room and garner feedback in real time. It was also revealed that the feature will be offered for both iOS and Android smartphone users from now on.   

“We know not everyone in the community wants to raise their hands and jump on stage to participate,” wrote Clubhouse in a post while announcing the feature, adding, “Many of you want a way to join in on the conversation from the comfort of the audience. And we get it — cause even on the internet, stage fright exists.” 

Apart from driving more user engagement, Clubhouse claims this will ensure conducting quick polls or taking questions from the audience easier. The announcement comes at a time when its total user base are believed to be switching to alternate platforms which are equipped with text features. Since launching back in 2020, Clubhouse was downloaded by 28 million iPhone and Android users all over the world, as per appfigures.

However, the number of downloads are reportedly dropping due to the slow introduction of key features, poor scalability and the lack of monetisation options, as claimed by media reports citing industry analysts.  

Clubhouse has also stated that creators will now have absolute control over in-room chat, and can decide to enable it when starting a new room. They can also delete messages during live rooms or after the room has ended. Moderators can also be appointed who can remove any user that they find to be disruptive to a room, as revealed by Clubhouse.  

Clubhouse is also taking multiple measures to enhance its user base in India. In November last year, it has announced support for 13 languages alongside English for the platform.