Neptune: A TikTok Alternative with Hidden Likes & Follower Counts

Introducing Neptune: A New Short-Form Video Platform

Neptune represents a recently developed short-form video application aiming to establish itself as a competitor to established platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

Early Traction and Launch Plans

Currently in its beta phase, the application has already garnered significant interest. The company reports over 400,000 individuals are on the waitlist, alongside 970 active testers participating in the beta program.

An announcement made on Monday detailed Neptune’s impending launch on the App Store next week. Rollout to the Google Play Store is anticipated within approximately six months.

The Vision Behind Neptune

The startup’s founder, Ashley Darling, brings experience from her time as a talent director at the OPTYX agency. There, she focused on supporting “underestimated” influencers.

Darling’s motivation for creating Neptune stemmed from a desire to prioritize creative expression over follower numbers. She explained to TechCrunch, “I consistently heard from creators and users a longing for the earlier days of social media – a time when the focus was on creativity, not competition.”

Addressing Creator Needs and Revenue Models

Given the current uncertainties surrounding TikTok, Neptune aims to attract content creators seeking alternative revenue opportunities. The platform intends to cultivate an environment where video quality and genuine connections are valued above follower counts.

Revenue streams planned for the app include tips, livestreaming capabilities, and subscription options.

Core Features and Functionality

Like its competitors, Neptune incorporates a discovery feature and a vertical video feed for browsing and engagement. Users can also personalize their profiles with cover photos, mirroring functionality found on platforms like X.

“Ghost Metrics” and Algorithm Focus

A distinctive aspect of Neptune is the option for creators to conceal their follower totals and like counts. This “ghost metrics” feature is designed to alleviate the pressures associated with public metrics, while still accommodating creators who wish to display them.

The platform’s algorithm is designed to prioritize user interests and content quality over creator popularity. This contrasts with typical social media algorithms that often favor highly engaged content, potentially disadvantaging smaller creators.

Prioritizing Connection Over Clout

Timur Tugberk, chief marketing officer, emphasized the platform’s core philosophy: “We are returning control to the creators who originally built the internet – not to corporations or algorithms. Neptune is built for connection, not for seeking popularity.”

Innovative Features: Hop Back

Neptune also introduces “Hop Back,” a feature that allows users to seamlessly resume watching a video from the point where they paused, even after the app is refreshed.

Current Limitations and Future Development

As Neptune is still in beta, it doesn’t yet offer its full range of planned features. Currently, the app provides a video feed and a search function.

During testing, a lack of in-app video editing tools and direct messaging functionality was observed. The company is actively developing livestreaming, playlist creation, and music integration features for future releases.