Clubhouse Introduces New Feature to Transform Text Messages into Personalized Voice Messages

Clubhouse, the once-thriving live audio app, has unveiled an exciting new feature allowing users to send text messages that are then read aloud in the sender's custom voice. This move comes as part of Clubhouse's efforts to remain relevant amidst a decline in user engagement.

To enhance user interaction, Clubhouse has introduced group voice chats where members can exchange asynchronous voice messages resembling the format of Instagram Stories.

With this latest feature, the company recognizes that users may not always be in a position to send or receive voice messages directly. By training their custom voice, users can send text messages that friends will hear in a recreated version of their voice. An indicator will inform friends when the AI voice is delivering the message, ensuring a dynamic experience.

In a blog post, Clubhouse emphasized the immersive experience this new feature brings. “Imagine texting a friend and having them hear your words as if you spoke them. Your custom voice makes communication feel seamless, ensuring that the essence of real-time conversation is preserved,” the company explained.

Clubhouse asserts that its AI can closely mimic your original voice, even with minimal training using just a few phrases. However, the AI may struggle to replicate laughter effectively, so users might want to avoid typing "hahaha."

Additionally, for those uncomfortable recording their own voice, the app can generate a synthetic voice using a text-to-speech model, although specific details were not disclosed.

Currently, this feature is available exclusively in the United States. Clubhouse has seen a significant reduction in user activity in recent years, boasting a valuation of approximately $4 billion during its last funding round. While the company has undergone several layoffs, it claims to still have some operational runway left, now venturing into AI-driven features to promote easier conversations and retain its user base.

According to app analytics firm Sensor Tower, Clubhouse experienced a peak in 2021 with 35 million downloads. However, as social interactions resumed and alternative platforms like Twitter Spaces emerged, the app saw only 3 million downloads last year. Sensor Tower reported a staggering 93% drop in monthly active users from its peak in June 2021 to January 2024.

Interestingly, last year, Apple launched a feature named Personal Voice, designed to create a voice that mimics the user’s own. This tool is particularly beneficial for individuals who risk losing their ability to speak due to conditions such as ALS.

This story has been updated to include download statistics from Sensor Tower.