Clubhouse: the newest social media app explained

You would think a social media app would want as many users as possible. Not Clubhouse.

This mysterious new platform has garnered some attention with it’s invite-only memberships and it’s the elite user base.

So, what makes this elusive app so successful?

What is the Clubhouse app?

The app attempts to give a voice to the people behind the post with its audio-based network where people can discuss a range of subjects.

Some describe it as a podcast-esque conversation with users simply recording their thoughts. Others will remark about its private rooms to chat with friends or create networking opportunities.

But as the old saying goes, what happens in the Clubhouse stays in the Clubhouse. There is no recording or saving these discussions, which only adds to the mystery for those not invited.

The pioneers behind Clubhouse are Paul Davidson and Rohan Seth. Although the app has only been released for a year, it has a valuation of at least $100 million, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

Who Uses the Clubhouse app?

Currently, the app only has 600,000 users invited. On paper, it’s confusing how an app with such a small number of users can be worth so much money.

Even weirder, they reached $100 million when they only had 1,500 members. Crazy, right?

Part of the allure of Clubhouse is it’s high class user base. The richest, most accomplished people are registered users for the app. That means celebrities, politicians, tech moguls, and more.

For this reason, people see Clubhouse as a great networking opportunity. If you can connect with an influential person, it could change the course of your career significantly.

But that is assuming you can get in. For now, the app is exclusive, but there are plans to expand the network to everyone in the future.

Possible Downsides of clubhouse?

The app's remarkable way of providing free flowing conversations could have a downside. Because the content is completely audio-based, it’s difficult for the creators to regulate what is said on the app.

This can mean unchecked racist hate speech and sexist rhetoric can be broadcasted directly to the world's most influential people.

If these past years have shown us anything, it’s that social media can be a powerful tool to change users perceptions and indoctrinate them into radical ideologies.

And it’s even more dangerous that people with real power would be exposed to this environment. And with the general public barred from the app, it doesn’t leave many people to hold them accountable.

The app has assured its critics that it does not condone hate speech as stated in their Community Guidelines, and they will look into any accusations of abuse. However, they have not laid out a clear plan for how they will prevent it in the future.

All in all, Clubhouse’s approach to letting users voice their opinions certainly makes them stand out. It allows people to connect in a unique way, and users build relationships here that they may not get on other social media platforms.