A new photo-sharing app called Flashes has launched on the App Store, gaining nearly 30,000 downloads in its first 24 hours. The app is built on the Bluesky platform and offers a classic Instagram-like experience, allowing users to upload up to four photos and videos of up to a minute in length.
Developed by Berlin-based developer Sebastian Vogelsang, Flashes has access to a built-in audience of over 32 million Bluesky users. This means that posts made on the Flashes app can reach a wider audience beyond those using the app itself. Users can also access custom feeds from Bluesky’s network, which allow them to curate their own content.
The app offers more customization options than Instagram, including a “Portfolio Mode” that lets users showcase their best work and built-in photo filters. Flashes is also launching curated feeds from artists, showcasing the community’s talent.
As part of its launch, Flashes is featuring images from the Blacksky community, which has been building out Bluesky tools for the Black community. Developer Vogelsang is open to funding opportunities and has already reached 40,500 downloads as of Thursday.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/28/bluesky-based-instagram-alternative-flashes-launches-publicly