Audio social media: A new way to cut through the noise
For better or for worse, the nature in which we communicate has changed drastically. Since the pandemic and the new normal, we have discovered a fantastic video solution to our lack of face-face contact social restrictions. The convenience and capabilities of video conferencing reflect the rise in popularity of video on social media. TikTok domination comes as no surprise; in May 2021, the app was the most downloaded non-gaming app worldwide, with over 80 million downloads. Nevertheless, many are experiencing screen fatigue in the new digital world.
Without the constant eye strain or insecurity of seeing yourself on-screen, audio appears to be a better alternative to video. It comes as no surprise with evident rising popularity surrounding podcast, audiobook and audio platforms. According to Statista, the estimated number of podcast listeners in the UK has almost doubled from 2017 to 2021, and forecasts predict that the number will only be amplified in the next few years.
With audio on social media on the rise, round-up audio platforms and functions are forecasted to be a revolutionary trend in digital communication.
Clubhouse
Introduced as an exclusive, invitation-only app is an audio-only social media platform that participants to chat in real-time with a muted audience listening in. With its origins as an exclusive space for celebrities, top global influencers, Silicon Valley investors and musicians could meet and share conversations took off in 2020. The latest news Clubhouse establishes an exclusive deal with TED to expand its content pool from thought leaders and expert speakers on the platform.
Facebook Messenger Rooms
Using video chat on Facebook Messenger Rooms is not a new function or feature, but social media giant announced live audio rooms on 21 June to answer the Clubhouse trend. Introducing a unique twist, Listeners can show support for speakers using Stars - a virtual currency that translates to $0.01 per Star – and a 'Front Row' in the listener display shows the highest-paying supporters to grab the speakers' attention.
Spotify Greenroom
One of the world's most popular audio streaming service, with 356m users in 178 territories, is making names in audio, social media with its app Greenroom. Though it shares in its equivalents' audio functions and format, one key difference between Greenroom and similar apps is a live text chat feature and an automatic audio recording that hosts can later upload as a podcast.
Watch out for new platforms such as:
Twitter Spaces
Cappuccino
Contact our experts if you would like to develop your social media strategy and integrate audio platforms into your digital marketing.