New Wave of Social Media Apps Offers Hope for a Doomscrolling World
In a bid to break free from the monotony of traditional social media platforms, a new wave of interest-based online communities is gaining traction. These niche sites aim to provide users with a more engaging and meaningful experience, one that prioritizes connection over content consumption.
Zehra Naqvi, founder of Lore, a platform designed for fans to stay up-to-date on their favorite fandoms, believes that the traditional social media model has failed to deliver on its promise. "The platforms that won were the ones that kept people scrolling the longest, not the ones that made them feel the most connected," Naqvi told TechCrunch.
Naqvi's sentiment is echoed by Natalie Dillon, a consumer investor at venture firm Maveron. "I'm starting to see an increasing number of founders build interest-based communities that cater to specific niches," Dillon said. "These platforms are designed to be more engaging and interactive, allowing users to connect with like-minded individuals on a deeper level."
The rise of these new social media apps is not just about providing an alternative to traditional platforms; it's also about addressing the growing concern of "doomscrolling." This phenomenon refers to the habit of mindlessly scrolling through social media feeds, often leading to feelings of anxiety and disconnection.
Lore, which launched this month, is one such platform that aims to change the way people interact with each other online. By focusing on specific interests and fandoms, Lore creates a sense of community and belonging among its users. "We're not just building a social media platform; we're creating a space where fans can come together and share their passion," Naqvi explained.
The new wave of interest-based communities is not limited to Lore alone. Other platforms, such as Discord and Slack, have been gaining popularity in recent years. These platforms offer users the ability to join specific channels or servers based on their interests, allowing for more targeted and meaningful interactions.
While these new social media apps show promise, they also raise questions about their long-term viability and scalability. "The challenge lies in balancing the need for community with the need for monetization," said Dillon. "If these platforms can figure out a way to make money without sacrificing user experience, then we may see a shift away from traditional social media."
As the social media landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: users are craving more meaningful connections online. The new wave of interest-based communities is answering this call, offering a glimmer of hope for a world that has grown tired of doomscrolling.
Background
The rise of social media platforms in the early 2010s was marked by a sense of excitement and possibility. Instagram, launched in 2010, quickly became a hub for users to share photos and connect with others. Twitter, launched in 2006, was initially seen as a platform for real-time news and information sharing.
However, over time, these platforms have become increasingly dominated by influencers and advertising. The rise of Facebook's algorithm-driven feed has led to concerns about the spread of misinformation and the erosion of user trust.
Next Developments
As the new wave of interest-based communities continues to gain traction, it will be interesting to see how they adapt to changing user needs and preferences. Will these platforms be able to balance community engagement with monetization? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, users are taking matters into their own hands. By joining niche online communities and engaging in meaningful conversations, individuals can create a more positive and connected social media experience.
Attributions
Zehra Naqvi, founder of Lore
Natalie Dillon, consumer investor at venture firm Maveron
*Reporting by Techcrunch.*
