WASHINGTON: Facebook on Monday began rolling out its service for people seeking audio-based connections in a direct challenge to the upstart social platform Clubhouse.

The “live audio rooms” will enable users of the social media giant to listen to, and sometimes participate in, conversations led by celebrities and “influencers” or create a fundraiser on the platform.

The new audio features “enable you to discover, listen in on and join live conversations with public figures, experts and others about topics you’re interested in,” said Fidji Simo, head of the Facebook app, in a blog post.

“Public figures can invite friends, followers, verified public figures, or any listeners in the room to be a speaker. The host can invite speakers in advance or during the conversation. There can be up to 50 speakers, and there’s no limit to the number of listeners.”