Reddit is reportedly expanding its live audio conversation product, Reddit Talk by introducing additional features aimed at increasing engagement, following the launch of its Clubhouse clone in April last year. The new features include web compatibility, recordings of previous sessions, live commentary during talks, and a live bar at the top of the home feed that reveals what live chats are taking place.
The firm has reported a 250% increase in everyday listeners of Reddit Talk over the last three months. Reddit further claimed that over 1,000 subreddits had hosted live audio talks, including a discussion in r/cryptocurrency with investor Kevin O'Leary as well as a session in r/movies with stuntmen from the "Jackass" franchise.
The concept of live audio rooms on Reddit may appear contradictory at first, given that many Redditors use the platform to maintain their anonymity. However, the option to send emojis and comments during live rooms will make it easier for shy people to participate.
Previously, listeners could only talk by raising their digital hands. Users will find it easier to connect with this new universe of Reddit content thanks to features like browser compatibility, the live bar, and asynchronous listening.
Reddit's iOS and Android applications are still the only way to start a conversation, but the option to start a chat on the desktop is coming later this month, according to Reddit.
For those unaware, only Reddit moderators can start live discussions right now. A Google Form can be used to apply to host a talk. Given the difficulties that platforms like Twitter Spaces as well as Clubhouse have had with content moderation, this could be a decent approach for Reddit to keep everything under control for the time being.
Meanwhile, a Reddit spokesperson said that the platform currently does not plan to extend the live audio feature to Reddit users other than moderators.
Source Credit: