With popular social platforms feeling the heat following the Social Dilemma documentary, many brands and users are taking time to unplug from social.
But in a socially distanced time where digital connection is craved for and more important than ever, these new platforms are emerging to right the wrongs of platforms past and give users a fresh, ad-free experience:
Leavemark is a data storage and social media hybrid. It is positioned as a Facebook alternative and provides users with a safe space to store important documents and photos and simply enjoy connecting with friends and family without having content pushed on them. The platform is subscription based and does not data mine, sell personal data or incorporate advanced algorithms specifically designed to push unsolicited content. Instead, it offers a free storage plan with a selection of upgraded packages for different tiers of storage, should users go over the initial storage capacity.
Additional key features include time and space capsules, an advanced archiving system for important documents, family tree features, uncensored newsfeed, direct messaging and an ad-free user experience. The app is available on both iOS and Android.
Vero prides itself as a remedy to Instagram. The photo-sharing app is built on a no ads or algorithms model. Founder Ayman Hariri created the platform as network for people wherein users do not need to sacrifice their data to advertisers and where creators are supported to make productive and meaningful content people genuinely care about.
The platform originally launched in 2015 and suddenly went dark in 2018. As of late, the app is finding its way back in the spotlight and looking to tackle something its competition has been unable to: the subscription model.
The app is available via iOS and Android
Are.na is a visual organization tool and Pinterest competitor designed to help you think and create. It lets you build simple collections of content by adding links and files of any kind. Connect ideas with other people by collaborating privately or building public collections for everyone.
With no ads, likes, or recommendations, Are.na is a more mindful space where you can work through any project over time. It’s a place to structure your ideas and build new forms of knowledge together.
Arna has a free version as well as premium and group subscription offering https://www.are.na/pricing