Bluesky: The New Instagram Alternative is Here

Flashes: A New Photo-Sharing App Based on Bluesky

A new Instagram alternative, Flashes, has been publicly released on the App Store this week. Within its initial 24 hours, the application achieved almost 30,000 downloads.

The app provides a user experience similar to the classic Instagram format. Users are able to upload up to four photos and videos, with each video limited to one minute in length.

Built on the AT Protocol

Flashes was developed by Sebastian Vogelsang, a developer based in Berlin. The application utilizes the same foundational protocol as Bluesky, known as the AT Protocol (or atproto).

Leveraging the Bluesky network, which currently boasts over 32 million users, Flashes benefits from immediate access to an established audience.

Compatibility with Bluesky

Content shared through the Flashes app is fully compatible with Bluesky. This compatibility allows posts to reach a broader audience beyond just Flashes users.

Customization and Control

While sharing similarities with Instagram, Flashes offers a greater degree of customization.

Unlike platforms governed by proprietary algorithms, Flashes users can choose from over 50,000 custom feeds on Bluesky. These feeds allow for personalized content curation.

The app also includes integrated feeds displaying both the most popular and the most recent posts across the entire Bluesky network.

Features for Photographers

Several features within Flashes are specifically designed to appeal to photographers.

“Portfolio Mode” enables users to carefully select the media displayed on their profile. This allows photographers to showcase their best work prominently.

Built-in photo filters are available for editing posts created directly within the Flashes application, mirroring functionality found in Instagram.

Curated Feeds and Community Focus

A new feature highlights curated feeds from various artists.

The launch of this update features imagery from the Blacksky community. Blacksky is dedicated to developing tools for the Black community on Bluesky, including moderation services and specialized feeds.

Future Development and Growth

Vogelsang has engaged in discussions with potential investors regarding funding opportunities and remains open to exploring them.

As of Thursday, the app has reached 40,500 downloads and represents one of several new projects being built on the Bluesky platform.