People are increasingly looking for alternatives to the major social media platforms run by big tech companies. New social networks like Bluesky and Mastodon are becoming popular among those who want to leave X (formerly known as Twitter). At the same time, developers are creating alternatives to TikTok that are designed to be resistant to bans, using open protocols that allow for more freedom and control. Many independent developers are also working on decentralized options for Instagram, Meta’s popular photo-sharing app that has over 2 billion users.
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While these new platforms aren’t as big or powerful as Meta, they are making strides in finding their own space in the social media landscape. This shift is happening just as investors are starting to take notice of the growing interest in open social networks. Interestingly, younger users, particularly Gen Z, have indicated that they would prefer to switch to another Chinese social app instead of going back to Instagram after using TikTok.
Here are some of the apps that are working on creating alternatives to Instagram using open protocols like Bluesky’s AT Protocol and ActivityPub, which is used by Mastodon and others.
Pixelfed
Pixelfed is a photo-sharing platform that has recently launched mobile apps for both iOS and Android. It uses ActivityPub, the same protocol that powers Mastodon and other platforms. Pixelfed allows users to share and explore photos and videos, as well as send direct messages, much like Instagram. However, it stands out because it is ad-free, open source, and decentralized, meaning that it doesn’t rely on ads for revenue and gives users more control over their data. Pixelfed also features a chronological feed, showing posts in the order they were made, which many users prefer. Within just two days of launching its mobile apps, Pixelfed reported over 10,000 downloads.
Flashes
Flashes is a new app that serves as an alternative to Instagram, built on the Bluesky network. It recently opened up for beta testing. This app operates using the same image and video guidelines as Bluesky, allowing users to post up to four photos or videos that are up to one minute long. When users post on Flashes, their content also appears on Bluesky, and comments from Bluesky users show up on Flashes as well. Flashes is part of a set of three apps created by developer Sebastian Vogelsang, which also includes Skeets (similar to Twitter) and Bluescreen (a video app). The plan is to eventually offer premium subscriptions that enable users to switch between these apps seamlessly.
Pinksky
Pinksky is another app built on the Bluesky platform, focusing on a photo-sharing experience. It aims to attract former Instagram users who are more interested in sharing photos rather than chasing viral trends or short videos. The app features a familiar layout, including a section for Stories at the top. One of its advantages is that users can connect with their existing friends and followers from Bluesky, even if those friends haven’t joined Pinksky yet. Currently, Pinksky is just a client for Bluesky, but if there is enough interest, it may expand to include other technologies like ActivityPub or Nostr. Right now, it’s free to use, but it might introduce paid features in the future if it grows significantly.
Skygram
Skygram is still in development and is a web-based app that aims to provide a more photo-focused experience on Bluesky. It allows users to switch between different feeds based on interests, such as gardening or pets. Although it is still basic and under construction, the code for Skygram is available on GitHub for anyone interested in following its progress.
In summary, as consumer demand for alternatives to major social media platforms rises, these new apps are stepping in to offer users more choices that prioritize privacy, user control, and a focus on sharing content in a more traditional way.
