Skylight, a new startup challenging TikTok with an open and decentralized alternative, has launched its mobile app publicly after only 10 weeks of development. The app utilizes the AT Protocol, the same cutting-edge technology behind Bluesky, and is backed by high-profile investors including Mark Cuban and Graham & Walker Venture Fund. Co-founded by Tori White and Reed Harmeyer, Skylight seeks to offer an engaging short-form video experience with familiar features while establishing connections to Bluesky’s extensive network of over 33.8 million users.
Skylight’s interface allows users to post, like, comment, and share videos similar to TikTok, but with innovative additions such as an in-app video editor and personalized user profiles. The decentralized nature of Skylight means that content posted on the platform can be accessed by users on Bluesky and other ATProto-based services, significantly enhancing its reach and potential for user engagement. With this unique integration, Skylight positions itself as a formidable contender in the social media landscape, particularly appealing to users seeking an open and resilient alternative.
The Birth of Skylight and its Functionalities
The motivation behind Skylight’s creation arose from concerns over the potential TikTok ban in the United States. Tori White, initially a travel influencer, worried about losing access to her community and content, leading to the development of Skylight as a more sustainable and resilient platform. Leveraging her experience as an influencer, White documented Skylight’s development journey on TikTok, which gathered significant attention and built an early user base of nearly 50,000 followers on her profile, @buildwithtori.
Skylight offers robust functionalities to captivate users. Beyond posting and engaging with videos, the app supports uploads up to three minutes long and plans to roll out additional features such as sounds, duets, stitching, bookmarks, and playlists. These features are designed to define Skylight’s identity rather than just emulating TikTok’s offerings. Furthermore, White envisions future innovations like customizable feeds and new gestures that transcend the conventional swipe and scroll, aimed to provide users with a unique and immersive experience. These ambitious plans highlight Skylight’s potential in shaping the future of decentralized social media.
Skylight’s Competitive Advantage and Market Position
Skylight’s integration with the AT Protocol offers it a significant competitive advantage. The decentralized nature of the platform is designed to ensure content access and security regardless of potential regulatory changes. The ambitious roadmap and innovative features make Skylight a compelling choice for users seeking an alternative to traditional social media giants. The app is currently in beta and available on both Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store, suggesting its readiness for broader adoption and a promising outlook for growth.
Moreover, Skylight’s connection to Bluesky’s extensive network provides it with a built-in user base and a stronger foundation to facilitate rapid growth. The decentralized setup also promises enhanced content moderation and user privacy, addressing typical concerns associated with traditional social media platforms. The backing by notable investors further underscores Skylight’s potential to disrupt the social media landscape and attract users looking for a resilient and secure solution.
Redefining User Engagement and Regulatory Resilience
Skylight, a new startup aiming to compete with TikTok through an open and decentralized platform, has released its mobile app just 10 weeks into development. Utilizing the AT Protocol, the same advanced technology powering Bluesky, Skylight is supported by high-profile investors including Mark Cuban and the Graham & Walker Venture Fund. Founded by Tori White and Reed Harmeyer, Skylight aims to provide an engaging short-form video experience with familiar TikTok-like features and connections to Bluesky’s massive network of over 33.8 million users.
The app’s interface offers users the ability to post, like, comment, and share videos, mirroring TikTok but with added features like an in-app video editor and personalized profiles. Skylight’s decentralized format ensures content posted on the platform can be viewed by users on Bluesky and other ATProto-based services, thus expanding its reach and engagement potential. This unique integration makes Skylight a strong contender in the social media landscape, attracting users who seek an open and resilient alternative.
