Airchat: The Latest Communication Platform in the Skies

Airchat, a new social media platform created by Naval Ravikant, the founder of AngelList, and Brian Norgard, former Chief Product Officer at Tinder, is quickly becoming popular on iOS and Android app stores. Unlike traditional social apps, Airchat stands out by focusing on audio posts. Users interact with the platform mainly through brief voice recordings that are automatically transcribed into text when played back. Ravikant believes that prioritizing natural voice communication helps to encourage authentic human connections, challenging the idea that people have difficulty relating to each other through text-based online interactions.

How is Airchat different?

Although Airchat includes familiar social features such as user following, feed scrolling, message reaction and content sharing, its main focus is still on voice messages. Nevertheless, users have the option to pause audio playback, read transcripts and share multimedia content within the platform. Additionally, Airchat introduces an asynchronous, threaded conversation model that differs from live audio forums such as Clubhouse or Twitter Spaces. This asynchronous approach allows users to refine their messages before sending, potentially catering to a more introverted user base that prefers thoughtful communication over spontaneous interaction.

Accessing Airchat currently requires an invitation from an existing user, as the platform operates under an early invite system. Upon joining, users are faced with a feed of audio messages that are set to play automatically, with the ability to adjust the playback speed. Creating a message involves tapping the compose button, recording an audio message, and sharing it with followers, who can interact with voice or text replies, likes, and shares.

Is Airchat safe to use?

As for content policing, Ravikant mentions the implementation of “complex rules” to reduce spam and disruptive activity, though exact details are not disclosed. Commercialization is not Airchat’s immediate priority, Ravikant is focused on promoting user interaction rather than financial gain in the near future.

Whether Airchat’s new approach to social interaction gains widespread adoption depends on the convenience of voice-based communication. Regardless, the platform offers an intriguing alternative for individuals looking for a more authentic form of social engagement centered around the human voice. If you’re lucky enough to get an invite, exploring Airchat’s unique perspective on social voice will prove beneficial.