In recent months, a new form of social media has emerged that aims for authenticity above heavily curated content. BeReal popularised the concept ofCandid Social by prompting users daily to share an unedited photo within 2 minutes. Though simple in design, it struck a nerve amongst users craving more genuine exchanges than perfectly posed Instagram feeds. Naturally, competitors soon followed hoping to capture this authenticity-seeking audience. As such,BeReal clones like Voilà and Twist have entered the scene intent on improving and expanding the candid idea.
Voilà operates similarly to BeReal by sending
all users a notification at random times each day prompting them to upload an unfiltered photo within 5 minutes. Moreover, it shows both the front and rear camera views side by sideintended to give an even more real glimpse into a moment. Additional privacy features let users hide their location or mask their identity if taking candid photos feels too exposing. However, Voilà takes things a step further by allowing optional traditional posting capabilities alongside the daily candid shots for more flexibility. This dual approach may appease those seeking a combination of curated and spontaneous sharing.
In addition, one quirky app aiming to position itself as the anti-BeReal newcomer isTruth Social. Much like BeReal in prompting impromptu photo pairs from each user once per day, Truth Social brings a gamified twist. Its interface labels each entry as“Truths” in homage to its founder Donald Trump’s “truths.” Furthermore, whimsical animation and sound effects provide lighthearted engagement as posts load and get “heart reacted.” Controversially, the app showed backlash for its political affiliations though it presents an atypicaltake on the grounded appeal of candid apps.
Similarly, the aptly named Twist differentiates
itself by basing its core concept around video rather than photos. Every 24 hours, Twist prompts users to record simultaneous front and back facing 15-second video clips within 3 minutes for a live twin perspective. Furthermore, its TikTok-style scroll allows set to soundtrack audio overlays for added creative expression.Though risky from a privacy standpoint, the live and mobile format aims to further raw intimacy. However, some complain Twist’s short clips lack the diary-like qualities of longer BeReal entries for forming deeper connections.
In any case, the interest in authentic yet constructive social media hints at a desire for increased transparency and reduction of posturing online. While not a fleeting trend, BeReal’s genuine concept faces challenges scaling and keeping users engaged beyond the daily candid drop-ins. Therefore the platforms distinguishing themselves with Value additions like privacy, flexibility, gamification or tighter community curation seem best positioned longterm to carry candid sharing into the future. The Kexciting to witness which BeReal alternative Successfully blends authentic moments with rewarding sustained experiences.
