Substack provides a unique haven where writers and content creators can freely express their ideas, stories, and expertise through newsletters. This platform allows writers to forge their path and connect directly with their audience.
Owing to its intuitive interface and robust monetization tools, Substack is the go-to platform for independent journalists, bloggers, and niche experts aiming to build a dedicated readership and earn simultaneously. Recently, the platform made a new addition to its ecosystem: Substack Notes.
Clashing platforms
The Substack Notes feature adds a social element to the platform. It allows writers to share shorter updates and experience real-time interaction with their subscribers. Here’s how it works: You like a writer, you subscribe to their free newsletter, get access to their Substack Notes and get to interact with their short-form content. If you like their writing, you can opt for their paid newsletter. You may also go over to the Recommendations tab to browse other writers you may be interested in. Now, this is where Substack starts earning. So, their business model does not intend to get your attention; it lets readers find new writers.
At a glance, the interface is a lot similar to Twitter in terms of its characteristic brevity. And so, this new update has raised eyebrows and ignited controversy; spurring discussions about the nature of Substack Notes and whether it can be labeled as a Twitter clone. Noticing these similarities between the platforms, Twitter, the microblogging pioneer, did not shy away from taking action against Substack. At one point, it even prevented users from liking tweets containing Substack links.
Elon Musk even claimed that Substack Notes was downloading the Twitter database for their platform. The Verge did a podcast episode in Decoder with the CEO of Substack, Chris Best, to ask about this (amongst other things), and his response was the claim isn’t true.
A social twist
If you take a closer look, though, Substack Notes transcends the realm of mere imitation. It introduces an array of unique features that expand the horizons for creators and offer an unparalleled experience. At its core, the feature enables writers to forge profound connections with their audience, fostering a vibrant community centered around their work.
By embracing this interactive format, readers gain direct access to their favorite writers’ insights, distinctive perspectives, and delightful wit, all presented in a form that seamlessly aligns with today’s fast-paced lifestyle.
Delving deeper into the features of Substack Notes, writers are empowered with the ability to craft concise updates that capture the essence of their thoughts. This condensed expression doesn’t dilute the impact; it catalyzes ideas to resonate with readers. Substack Notes also enhances the sense of community between writers and readers by fostering meaningful interactions. Through comments and direct responses, writers can engage in dynamic conversations.
Unlike Twitter, the customers for Substack Notes are readers, not advertisers. Twitter is a platform that mainly generates revenue through ads, so the main target is to grab attention. Substack Notes, on the contrary, generates revenue through subscriptions. No, you don’t have to pay to access this new feature — it’s completely free.
So is it a clone of Twitter? The simple answer is no, it isn’t. Substack Notes embraces the spirit of concise expression, allowing ideas to flourish. While it may draw inspiration from the microblogging giant, it runs on an entirely different business model and offers a unique and valuable experience that caters only to writers and readers.
Photo credits: The feature image is symbolic and has been done with the help of Adobe Firefly.
Source: Nilay Patel (The Verge)
