PixelFed Launches Mobile Apps: A Decentralized Instagram Alternative

Pixelfed Launches Official Mobile Applications

Pixelfed, a decentralized platform serving as an alternative to Instagram, has recently released its official mobile apps. The service operates utilizing the ActivityPub protocol.

This protocol also underpins other open-source social applications like Mastodon, PeerTube, and Meta’s Threads, alongside Flipboard and Surf, contributing to the expansion of the fediverse – a movement towards a more open social web.

Origins and Core Features

Initially developed in 2018 by Daniel Supernault, the creator of the federated TikTok alternative Loops, Pixelfed mirrors Instagram’s functionality. Users can share photos and videos, and engage in direct messaging.

However, Pixelfed distinguishes itself significantly through its commitment to being ad-free, open source, and decentralized. A key feature is its default chronological feed presentation, which is a major draw for many users.

Growing User Interest

Amidst concerns about potential TikTok bans, Pixelfed’s apps are gaining traction. Users are actively seeking alternatives to platforms controlled by Meta, particularly given concerns about content moderation practices.

The platform provides options for users to either join existing community servers or to self-host their own Pixelfed instance, mirroring the approach of other federated applications.

App Availability and Early Success

Previously, access to Pixelfed was limited to web browsers or third-party apps like Impressia. Now, official mobile apps are available for both Android and iOS, following a period of beta testing.

The Android app launched slightly before the iOS version and quickly surpassed 10,000 downloads within just two days, as reported by Supernault on Mastodon.

Currently, the app holds the position of the No. 1 Social app on Google Play in several markets, including the United States.

Rapid User Growth

Over the past 24 hours, pixelfed.social, a prominent Pixelfed instance, has welcomed 11,000 new users. This server alone processed over 78,000 posts on Tuesday.

The Pixelfed apps are available for free and are designed with user privacy in mind, ensuring no user data is collected.