These apps are building Instagram alternatives on open protocols

New apps seek to offer Instagram alternatives through open protocols like ActivityPub and Bluesky's AT Protocol.

: Alternative social networks like Pixelfed, Flashes, Pinksky, and Skygram are creating Instagram alternatives using open protocols such as ActivityPub and AT Protocol. Pixelfed, a photo-sharing service on ActivityPub, is ad-free and encourages chronological feeds, achieving over 10,000 downloads shortly after launching its mobile apps. Flashes, running on AT Protocol, integrates with the Bluesky network, enhancing photo and video sharing. Pinksky and Skygram also offer photo-centric experiences, highlighting a shift towards decentralized, user-focused platforms.

Demand for alternatives to major social platforms is rising, and several apps are focusing on building Instagram substitutes using open protocols like ActivityPub and Bluesky's AT Protocol. Pixelfed, known for its ad-free experience, follows a decentralized model on ActivityPub and quickly gained popularity, with over 10,000 downloads shortly after its mobile apps launched. This app also offers chronological feeds, distinguishing itself from Instagram.

Flashes, another promising alternative, operates on the Bluesky network's AT Protocol and enables users to share photos and videos while maintaining compatibility with Bluesky's posting and commenting features. Created by Sebastian Vogelsang, Flashes is part of a suite of apps, including Skeets and Bluescreen, potentially offering premium subscriptions across their platforms. Similarly, Pinksky is focused on a photo-first user interface designed for those migrating from Instagram, while Skygram, still under development, allows for interest-based feed switching.

Though these applications have yet to rival Meta's vast influence, they are drawing attention from both consumers and investors interested in the open social web. Gen Z users, in particular, show interest in transitioning to different networks, including other Chinese social apps, rather than returning to traditional platforms like Instagram. Each app is still evolving with potential plans for monetization and technological expansions depending on user demand.

Open ProtocolsInstagram AlternativesSocial Networks