Discord

Discord is a communications platform centered on real-time voice, video and text for communities, friends and teams. Its flagship client combines voice channels, video conferencing, screen sharing, direct messaging and persistent topic-based channels across platforms.

Originally established in 2012 by Jason Citron and Stanislav Vishnevskiy, the company initially operated as Phoenix Guild and later Hammer & Chisel. Its early work included the tablet multiplayer online battle arena Fates Forever. While building that game, the founders developed voice and chat technology that prompted a shift away from standalone game development. Discord launched as a communications platform on May 13, 2015.

Platform and community tools

Discord provides public and private server infrastructure with moderation tools, Stage channels, forum channels and threads. Communities can organize conversations around interests, games, study groups, creative work and other shared activities. The platform also offers Discord Nitro and Nitro Basic subscriptions, server boosting, and digital profile goods through the Discord Shop.

Developer ecosystem

For game and interactive developers, Discord offers APIs, bot integrations and software development kits. The Embedded App SDK supports activities and multiplayer social experiences within Discord voice channels, while the Discord Social SDK enables external games to incorporate features such as persistent chat, friends lists and Rich Presence.

Discord's work spans interactive entertainment, online communities, digital communications and developer infrastructure. Its products evolved from gaming-focused communication needs into a broader platform used by communities across subjects including education, music, open-source programming and lifestyle interests.