Discord: Your Ultimate Guide To The Platform & More!
Is Discord just another messaging app, or is it a sprawling digital universe connecting millions across the globe? Discord has evolved from a gamer's haven into a multifaceted platform, intertwining communication, community building, and even business, proving its far-reaching influence in today's digital landscape.
The genesis of Discord can be traced back to 2015. It was then that Jason Citron, observing the limitations of existing communication tools within the gaming sphere, envisioned a platform that could bring players closer together. Teaming up with Stanislav Vishnevskiy, Citron launched Discord with the specific goal of streamlining communication amongst gaming communities. This foundational focus would eventually pave the way for its remarkable evolution. Since its launch, Discord has become a dominant force in the digital world, constantly evolving to fit the needs of its growing user base.
At its core, Discord is a social network, a virtual space designed to facilitate easy communication. Whether through text chat, voice calls, or video calls, Discord offers a variety of ways for people to connect. Users can create their own communities (known as "servers") or join existing ones, fostering connections based on shared interests. Its versatility is its strength; it is a place where gamers strategize, friends hang out, online influencers engage with their audiences, and businesses conduct operations.
Discord offers a range of features, including the ability to stream video. Free accounts allow users to stream in 720p at 30 frames per second, 1080p at 60 fps. Users with the premium account can stream in 4k at 60 fps. The platform is also known for its voice chat support, offering a seamless way to connect with others in real-time. For those who want to add some flair to their conversations, Discord also supports the use of custom emotes and stickers.
Beyond gaming, Discord has found its place within the online influencer landscape. YouTubers, podcasters, livestreamers, and other online personalities leverage the platform to cultivate and engage with their audiences, using it as a hub to build robust internet communities.
The platform's evolution has not been without its challenges. In January 2024, Discord announced layoffs, cutting nearly 20% of its workforce. Company leaders cited rapid expansion as a contributing factor to the decision.
Discord also has its own unique vocabulary, and it's important to be aware of that. For those looking to create an organized space, server moderation is a vital step, Discord offers tools and features to help you identify and welcome moderators.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Communication Methods | Text chat, voice calls, video calls, direct messaging |
| Community Structure | Servers (user-created spaces), channels (text and voice) |
| User Base | Gamers, online influencers, businesses, communities |
| Content Sharing | Screensharing, file sharing, media |
| Platform Availability | Desktop, mobile (iOS and Android), web browser |
| Monetization | Discord Nitro (premium subscription) |
| Voice Chat Support | Yes, including for PS5 consoles |
Discord's business model has grown from a free platform supported by a freemium subscription service. Its premium tier, Discord Nitro, offers users enhanced features such as custom emotes, higher video quality, and other aesthetic customizations. In 2022, Discord generated $220 million in revenue. Despite its consistent revenue, the company has yet to reach profitability.
The platform's appeal extends beyond gamers; businesses, communities, and individuals have also found value in Discord. For creators, Discord provides a direct line of communication with fans, enabling them to interact via text chat, voice, and video. It's a versatile tool. The platform's integration with gameplay, combined with the ability to create and manage their own spaces, has cemented Discord as a cornerstone of the online world.
One cannot discuss Discord without mentioning its mascot, Wumpus, who appears throughout the client and website. Wumpus is a symbol of the brand. Discord's evolution reflects the ever-changing needs of its users. The platform continues to adapt, with features like voice chat support for consoles and activities such as the way to play games directly, to make it easier for people to connect.
Discord, Inc., the company behind the platform, is led by co-founders Jason Citron and Stanislav Vishnevskiy. Based in San Francisco, the company has secured significant funding, reaching a valuation of $15 billion. Discord has issued violations when users break their rules. The intervention depends on the violation and the impact on their account standing.
