Instagram Alternatives: New Apps on Open Protocols

The Rising Interest in Alternatives to Traditional Social Media

A noticeable increase in consumer preference for platforms outside of those offered by major technology companies is currently being observed. Social networks such as Bluesky and Mastodon are experiencing growth as individuals seek alternatives to X, formerly known as Twitter.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to create TikTok alternatives that are resistant to censorship, leveraging open protocols for their foundation.

A similar trend is emerging in the realm of photo-sharing, with independent developers focusing on creating open and decentralized alternatives to Instagram, Meta’s dominant platform boasting over 2 billion monthly active users.

Emerging Platforms Challenging Instagram's Dominance

Although these newer applications have not yet reached the scale of Meta’s offerings, their capacity to establish even a modest foothold in the market is noteworthy.

This development coincides with a growing awareness among investors regarding the potential of the open social web.

Recent indications suggest that members of Generation Z are more inclined to transition from TikTok to another social application originating from China, rather than reverting to Instagram.

Instagram Alternatives Built on Open Protocols

The following outlines several applications dedicated to constructing Instagram alternatives utilizing open protocols, including Bluesky’s AT Protocol and ActivityPub – the protocol employed by Mastodon and similar platforms.

• These protocols aim to provide greater user control and data portability.
• The focus is on building networks that are less susceptible to centralized control.
• Developers are prioritizing open standards to foster interoperability.

Pixelfed

Pixelfed, while not a recent development, officially released dedicated mobile applications for both iOS and Android platforms in January.

The platform’s architecture is based on ActivityPub, a protocol also utilized by Mastodon, PeerTube – a video-sharing alternative to YouTube – and increasingly, mainstream services like Meta’s Threads and Flipboard (along with Flipboard’s Surf application).

Collectively, these applications constitute the “fediverse,” a term denoting the network of interconnected, independently operated servers.

Core Functionality

Pixelfed mirrors many features found in Instagram, enabling users to share, discover, and interact with photos and videos, as well as engage in direct messaging.

However, a key distinction lies in Pixelfed’s commitment to an ad-free experience, its open-source nature, decentralized structure, and a default chronological feed presentation – all of which are central to its appeal.

Initial Adoption

Developer Daniel Supernault reported (in a now-deleted Mastodon post) that within the first 48 hours of availability, Pixelfed’s mobile apps exceeded 10,000 downloads.

This indicates a significant level of initial interest in the platform and its alternative approach to social media.

Decentralization and user control are key features driving adoption.

Flashes

Flashes is a new social media platform positioned as an alternative to Instagram. It leverages the infrastructure of the Bluesky social network and recently initiated its beta testing phase.

Similar to Bluesky, Flashes operates using the AT Protocol. Content creation is subject to the same limitations as Bluesky, specifically allowing a maximum of four images per post and video clips capped at one minute.

Integration with Bluesky

Flashes functions as a visually-focused client for Bluesky. Posts originating on Flashes are simultaneously published to a user’s Bluesky feed.

Conversely, interactions – such as comments – made by Bluesky users on Flashes posts are mirrored back within the Flashes application.

Part of a Larger Ecosystem

This application represents one component of a set of three Bluesky clients developed by Sebastian Vogelsang. The other two applications are Skeets, designed to mimic the functionality of Twitter, and Bluescreen, a platform dedicated to video sharing.

The long-term vision involves the introduction of premium subscription options. These subscriptions would grant access across all three clients, enabling seamless switching between different user interfaces.

• Key Features: Photo and video sharing.
• Protocol: Built on AT Protocol.
• Developer: Sebastian Vogelsang.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide users with flexibility and choice within the Bluesky ecosystem.

Pinksky

Pinksky represents another client application developed for the Bluesky network, with a specific focus on providing a visually-oriented experience.

The application is intended to appeal to individuals previously using Instagram who are seeking a platform centered around photo sharing, rather than prioritizing viral trends or short-form video content like Reels.

Interface and Functionality

Pinksky’s user interface is designed to be readily familiar, incorporating elements such as a tappable Stories section positioned at the top of the screen.

A key advantage of Pinksky is its ability to leverage existing Bluesky connections.

Users can connect with their current network of friends and followers on Bluesky, regardless of whether those contacts have yet adopted Pinksky.

Future Development and Monetization

Currently functioning solely as a Bluesky client, Pinksky’s developers are considering potential expansions.

These expansions could include integrations with other open protocols, such as ActivityPub and Nostr, broadening the platform’s interoperability.

The application is presently available for free, but the possibility of introducing premium features to support ongoing development and monetization is being evaluated.

Such features would only be implemented if the user base grows sufficiently to justify the investment.

Skygram

Skygram is presently under development, functioning as a web application intended to provide a Bluesky experience focused on visual content.

The platform allows users to navigate between feeds organized by interests, accessible via a top-of-screen interface. Examples of these feeds include topics such as Gardening and Dogs.

Key Features & Development

Although currently basic in its functionality, the source code for Skygram is publicly accessible on GitHub. This allows for community contribution and ongoing improvements to the application.

Development efforts are actively being pursued, aiming to enhance the user experience and expand the platform’s capabilities.

The project emphasizes a visually-driven approach to social networking within the Bluesky ecosystem.

Users can expect further refinements and additions as the project matures and receives feedback from the developer community.