BeReal: The rise of authentic social media

Do you ever feel like every social media platform is the same? That everyone is just sharing the same highlights of their life, and you can't really get a sense of who they are? Well, there's a new app that is changing all of that. BeReal is a social media app that focuses on authenticity. Users can only share real moments from their lives, without any filters or embellishments. This means that social media platforms like BeReal gives you a true glimpse into who someone is.

BeReal is booming among Gen Z users, who are sick of the fake and curated content that is so prevalent on other social media platforms. On BeReal, you can't share anything that isn't a real moment from your life. This allows users to connect with each other on a much deeper level, as they are sharing their true selves with the world.

So why are Gen Z wanting more authenticity from their social media experience?

Well, Gen Z has grown up in a world where social media is everywhere. They are the first generation to be raised with social media, and as a result, they are much more savvy when it comes to its dangers. They have seen first-hand how easy it is to present a false version of yourself online. Furthermore, they crave authenticity and real connection, which is why BeReal is quickly becoming their social media platform of choice.

Gen Z have been advertised to online their entire lives - whether this be from influencers or brands. As a result, they are very good at spotting inauthenticity and want a platform free of constant ads and promotion. BeReal offers them this, as users are only able to share real moments from their lives without any filters, embellishments and fake results of products influencers and others use.

BeReal - how it works and its rise in popularity

Well BeReal is a simple photo-sharing app that lets you share a photo of your actual life as you are living it with friends once a day. Every user snaps a live photo once a day within a two-minute window. They can choose to share it with friends, or keep it private.

Although the app launched in 2020, this year it is quickly gaining popularity especially among Gen Z users who are craving more authenticity in their social media feeds. According to recent data from Social Media Today the app has over 2.9 million daily active users and since the beginning of 2022, downloads have increased by a whopping 315%.

Karen Freberg, a University of Louisville professor who specializes in social media, remarked on the rise in popularity of genuine apps:

“There is a demand for apps like BeReal because of the growing need for authenticity. We have seen the dominance of filters, editing apps and picture-perfect images and videos shape the social media industry. As a result, this has increased unrealistic expectations and pressures from various audiences, especially for gen Zers and millennials. Everyone wants to see what is really going on – without the filters.”

Are authentic apps here to stay?

It is hard to say if authentic apps will be a long-term trend or not. However, what we can see is that there is a growing demand for them. As social media becomes more and more saturated, users are craving platforms that offer them something different. BeReal is just one example of an authentic app that is quickly gaining popularity. Only time will tell if this trend will continue or fizzle out. However, one thing is for sure, BeReal is changing the social media landscape and giving users a much-needed break from the perfection that is so often portrayal online.

As someone who spends a lot of time on social media, it's nice to see an app that is promoting authenticity and honest, unfiltered moments. I personally think this is a trend that will continue to grow in popularity, as people are craving more real and relatable content. Users have already described BeReal as feeling safe and welcoming, two things that are often lacking on other social media platforms. It's thrilling to see apps like BeReal, which share our mission of creating a secure and welcoming environment, growing in popularity among older users. Here at Spotlite we are creating our own good vibe community for younger users, so they too can have an authentic and welcoming social media.

So, if you're looking for a break from the perfection of Instagram or the fake news of Twitter, then BeReal and other apps like it are definitely worth checking out. Who knows, you might just find yourself falling in love with this app and its community of real people just trying to be themselves. What do you think about this trend? Will you be downloading BeReal and other more authentic social media apps?