The rise of alternative social networks is gaining momentum as consumers seek options to leave platforms like TikTok and Instagram dominated by big tech giants. Several new apps are emerging, leveraging open protocols such as Bluesky’s AT Protocol and ActivityPub, to provide users with a decentralized and ad-free experience.
Pixelfed, a photo-sharing platform built on ActivityPub, recently launched mobile apps for iOS and Android, attracting 10,000 downloads within its first two days. The app boasts chronological feeds, is ad-free, and open source, offering an attractive alternative to Instagram.
Flashes, another app built on Bluesky’s AT Protocol, has opened its beta testers’ doors just last week. This photo-first app will display users’ posts on Bluesky, while Bluesky comments appear on Flashes. The developer plans to offer premium subscriptions that span multiple apps, including Twitter-like Skeets and video app Bluescreen.
Pinksky is also building a photo-centric experience for former Instagram users. With a familiar interface and the ability to connect with friends from Bluesky, Pinksky aims to attract users seeking a more meaningful social network. The app’s future plans include integrating with other technologies like ActivityPub or Nostr if it gains sufficient demand.
Another project, Skygram, is still in development but promises a more photo-centric Bluesky experience. With interest-based feeds and a user-friendly interface, Skygram aims to provide an alternative for those seeking a decentralized social network.
While these apps are not yet ready to rival the size of big tech giants, their emergence marks an exciting shift towards open social platforms. As investors take notice of this growing trend, users like Gen Z are opting for alternatives over established social media behemoths, signaling a change in consumer behavior.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/09/these-apps-are-building-instagram-alternatives-on-open-protocols