Stage channels are Discord's answer to Clubhouse

Discord Windows Lede 1
Discord Windows Lede 1 (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Discord just announced a new feature called Stage channels.
  • They are a new type of channel built for speaking with an audience.
  • Stage channels are similar to the popular new app, Clubhouse.

Discord just announced a new type of channel for Community servers that focuses on speaking with an audience. They're called Stage channels, and they're Discord's answer to the Clubhouse app that's growing in popularity. Stage channels allow you to communicate with an audience and easily control who can take part in the conversation. The goal is to combine the intimacy of a podcast with the interactivity of a Q&A.

Like the rest of Discord, Stage channels can easily work in a variety of situations. You can set up a Stage channel for an AMA (Ask Me Anything) or an interview. According to Discord, you can also use them for karaoke, though it seems more likely that people will use them for conversations.

Within Stage channels, Stage moderators can manage who is speaking and mute or remove an existing speaker. For example, a moderator could virtually call up someone from the audience to ask a question. Audience members can raise their hands to show that they want to participate.

Source: Discord (Image credit: Source: Discord)

To use Stage channels, you'll need to enable them within your Community server. This can be done through Server Settings > Community.

Stage channels are live on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and on the web.

Discord has also been in the headlines lately for reportedly being in exclusive talks with Microsoft regarding being acquired. Our senior editor Jez Corden explains why it's vital that Microsoft purchases the communication platform.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.