Discord Introduces Stage Channels: A New Approach to Voice Events

Currently, numerous platforms are attempting to replicate the functionality of Clubhouse. However, for Discord, the implementation of similar features represents a logical progression.

The past year witnessed a surge in Discord’s popularity as individuals sought secure methods to maintain their social connections while remaining at home. The company attributes the development of Stage Channels – a novel feature designed to facilitate more organized voice conversations with designated speakers and listeners – to observed user behaviors during the pandemic.

Voice Chat: A Core Discord Functionality

For years, voice chat has been central to Discord’s offerings. It has consistently provided gamers with a remarkably clear and fluid voice communication service, surpassing the capabilities of integrated in-game chat systems.

Despite being pioneers in this area, Discord acknowledges the current trend of Clubhouse-inspired voice events.

Versatile Applications for Stage Channels

Discord envisions these new channels being utilized for a variety of purposes, including voice-based Q&A sessions and interviews, book clubs, and even karaoke. The new channels will streamline activities already occurring within Discord, simplifying the process for server administrators to host structured discussions without complex permission configurations.

Stage Channels seamlessly integrate with Discord’s existing environment. They function as described, enabling Discord server operators to curate a speaker experience and employ moderation tools to manage speaking access and timing. Similar to Clubhouse or Zoom, participants can virtually raise their hand to request speaking privileges, and can also discreetly exit the conversation.

Implementation Details

These Stage Channels are specifically designed for community servers, which cater to larger Discord groups. Server owners must convert their channels to a community server format if they haven’t already, to activate the new functionality.

Unlike Clubhouse, which prominently features user-created live events, Discord’s event discovery will differ. While community servers can apply for inclusion in the server discovery menu, the platform’s primary focus remains on private groups and established communities.

Discord's Unique Position in the Market

With a robust user base and its established role as the preferred application for effortless voice communication, Discord is strategically positioned to attract a distinct audience for voice-based events.

The app maintains a strong presence within the gaming community and generally appeals to a younger demographic, contrasting with the entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and brands that initially embraced Clubhouse.

Discord’s origins in gaming haven’t hindered its growth. Over recent years, Discord has expanded beyond its gaming roots, becoming a versatile chat platform for diverse groups, including college study groups and fan communities. The company’s valuation doubled within a six-month period last year, and Microsoft is reportedly exploring a potential acquisition for $10 billion.