Substack, the popular newsletter platform, has launched a new feature that allows writers and their subscribers to engage in real-time conversations on the web. The new feature, called “Chat,” is an extension of Substack’s existing messaging feature and is aimed at providing a space for more nuanced discussions among subscribers.
The new feature was announced by Substack in a blog post on Tuesday. According to the post, Chat is designed to help writers build stronger communities and foster deeper engagement with their subscribers. It also allows subscribers to connect with each other and engage in group conversations, creating a space for more meaningful interactions.
Chat is now available to all Substack users and can be accessed through the web app. The feature is available for both public and private discussions and allows users to create multiple channels for different topics. Writers can also moderate discussions and manage membership to ensure that conversations remain productive and respectful.
Substack has been rapidly expanding its offerings in recent months, as it seeks to position itself as a one-stop-shop for independent writers looking to monetize their content. The platform has already launched a podcast feature and a paid subscription service, and it recently announced plans to add support for video content.
The addition of Chat to Substack’s offerings is a natural next step for the platform, as it seeks to deepen its relationship with its users and provide them with more tools to engage with their audiences. The feature is likely to be especially useful for writers who cover complex or controversial topics, as it allows them to have more nuanced discussions with their subscribers.
The launch of Chat also puts Substack in direct competition with other social media platforms, such as Twitter and Discord, which also offer real-time chat features. However, Substack’s focus on building communities around specific writers and topics could give it an edge in this space.
Overall, the addition of Chat to Substack’s offerings is a welcome development for writers and subscribers alike. By providing a space for more nuanced discussions and deeper engagement, the feature is likely to help Substack build stronger and more vibrant communities around its writers.
