Facebook is planning to launch Live Audio Rooms "by the summer".
The social networking site has announced a range of audio features coming over the next few months, including its own take on Clubhouse.
In a statement, Fidji Simon - Head of Facebook App - said: "Audio seamlessly fits within our busy lives, allows us to be inspired by new ideas, and talk with other like-minded people without pressure.
"You can share your personal story or join in on a global conversation in any way, anytime, anywhere — even on a bad hair day without any makeup — or in your car or on a run!
"At Facebook, we’ve seen the continuing rise of audio on our platforms, from audio calls to audio messages on WhatsApp and Messenger.
"We’re working to make audio messages easier to record, and more fun — including the ability for people to send familiar sound clips to their friends that range from sound effects like crickets chirping to quotes from popular songs."
In terms of Live Audio Rooms, Facebook will initially test the new feature in Groups with plans for a full roll-out on the app over the coming months.
Simon added: "As part of this initial rollout — and because we know communities aren’t built just in Groups — we’ll also bring Live Audio Rooms to public figures so they can host conversations with other public figures, experts and fans."
Facebook is also introducing Soundbites, which will let users share "short-form, creative audio clips for capturing anecdotes, jokes, moments of inspiration, poems, and many other things we haven’t yet imagined".
There will also be "monetisation opportunities", although including charging for access to Live Audio Rooms, or donating to causes users care about.
Simon said: "To kickstart Soundbites, we’re introducing an Audio Creator Fund to support emerging audio creators and get early feedback on the new product experience."
