This month, Airchat, an exclusive social media app, has gained attention with its relaunch, drawing in notable users and investors such as OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Accomplice VC’s Jeff Fagnan. Different from the usual noise of social media, the app prioritises voices and eliminates the option to upload photos or write text, giving it a more human touch than Facebook or Reddit.
Having obtained an invite to the platform, I immersed myself in the world of Airchat to explore its appeal. Here’s what I uncovered.
The Concept
Airchat’s approach is straightforward yet groundbreaking. All posts and replies on the app are audio recordings that are AI-transcribed, allowing users to hear the voices behind the posts as they scroll through their feeds. The app aims to make conversations feel real and immediate, as opposed to catching up on past content.
Using Airchat
As I scrolled through my Airchat feed, I found the use of audio clips instead of text or videos to be refreshing. The presence of real voices made the content more engaging, creating a sense of authenticity that is sometimes lacking on traditional social media platforms.
The app’s founders, Naval Ravikant and Brian Norgard, are both active on Airchat, and it’s evident that they aim to create a space where real, meaningful conversations can take place. Ravikant himself expressed that the app is more of a social messenger rather than an influencer platform, setting it apart from other social media platforms.
What Works
The most striking aspect of Airchat is its intensely personal and thoughtful nature. The emphasis on genuine human connection and asynchronous conversations sets it apart from other social audio apps like Clubhouse. Additionally, the app’s quality-over-quantity approach ensures that the discussions taking place are meaningful and well-moderated.
What Could Use Improvement
One area where Airchat could improve is the issue of audio feeds continuing to play in the background even when the app is closed. While this might be a minor inconvenience, it’s a feature that could use some refinement.
Why I’ll Use Airchat Again
My overall experience with Airchat left me feeling more connected to the world, rather than disconnected, as is often the case with other social media platforms. The app’s invitation-only user base creates a civil, respectful atmosphere that is reminiscent of a sophisticated dinner party, making it a space where genuine conversations can thrive.
In conclusion, Airchat offers a unique social media experience that values human interaction and quality content over mass-produced, impersonal posts. As I look forward to using the app again, I can’t help but marvel at the potential it holds for creating new connections and meaningful discussions.