Decentralized Instagram Alternative Pixelfed Launches Mobile Apps

Jimmy Jing

14 Jan 2025 — 1 min read

Pixelfed, a decentralized platform reminiscent of Instagram, has announced the release of its official mobile applications. The platform, similar to popular networks like Mastodon and PeerTube, operates on the ActivityPub protocol, facilitating an open social web movement known as the fediverse. This initiative encourages platforms to be more open and interconnected.

Features and Unique Selling Points

Originally developed by Daniel Supernault in 2018, Pixelfed is an application akin to Instagram where users can share photos and videos. However, Pixelfed differentiates itself by being ad-free, open-source, and decentralized, with chronological feeds as a default setting. These attributes are key attractions for its user base.

The launch of Pixelfed's mobile apps comes at a time when many social media users seek alternatives to larger platforms like Meta, especially as other options like TikTok face potential bans. This situation positions Pixelfed to capitalize on the growing demand for independent social media experiences.

Image Credits: Pixelfed

Getting Started with Pixelfed

Users interested in Pixelfed have the option to join existing community servers or host their own Pixelfed instance, embracing the federation model central to similar applications.

Mobile App Availability

Before this official release, Pixelfed could be accessed via the web or through third-party applications like Impressia. The new official mobile apps are available for both Android and iOS users, marking a significant step in Pixelfed's growth following previous beta testing phases.

A Rapid Climb in Popularity

The Android app was released shortly before its iOS counterpart and achieved 10,000 downloads within two days, according to Daniel Supernault's Mastodon account. This success has made Pixelfed the leading Social app on Google Play across numerous markets, including the United States.

Moreover, in the last 24 hours alone, Pixelfed's top server, pixelfed.social, has welcomed 11,000 new users and recorded over 78,000 posts, demonstrating a quick uptake among social media users.

Security and Privacy Focus

Pixelfed apps provide a free service without collecting user data, aligning with the platform's commitment to privacy and open-access principles.

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