Marketers know that the social media realm moves fast - especially with the integration of artificial intelligence into platforms to rank content, personalize recommendations, automate processes, and power chatbots.
The social networking market is projected to surpass 6 billion people by 2028, and be worth $183 billion by 2027, according to Statista. So, with social media evolving rapidly, marketers are always looking for new platforms to diversify their strategies.
Users are also becoming more conscious of data privacy on social media and how their information is being used. From privacy-focused networks to niche hobby platforms, new and emerging social channels offer users alternative ways to stay connected.
Let’s explore the hottest alternative social platforms you should consider.
We’ve grouped these social platforms into seven categories:
- Alternatives to X – Threads, Bluesky, Mastodon,
- Alternatives to Facebook – NextDoor
- Instant messaging apps - Telegram
- Hobby apps – Strava, Letterboxd
- Image-based apps – BeReal, Lemon8, Locket
- Audio apps - Discord
- Membership apps – Patreon, Vero
1. Alternatives to X (Twitter)
Platforms like Threads, Bluesky, Mastodon, and True are direct competitors of X, each offering unique features and addressing gaps left by the changes to X under Elon Musk’s ownership.
7) Strava
Strava launched in 2009 as a niche website for cyclists to log mileage. Today, the app serves more than 150 million athletes across 185 countries.
Strava has tapped into the need for athletes to connect, adding messaging and group chat features to encourage communication within its thriving user base.
- Strava partners with a variety of brands, including Chipotle, Lululemon, and Brooks, to create branded workouts and product discounts for participants. For brands, the appeal of Strava lies in its engaged, fitness-oriented community, where companies can promote their products through partnerships, sponsorships, and athlete clubs.
- Mexican restaurant chain Chipotle used Strava to engage consumers who valued wellness and admitted to eating at the chain after a run. On the app, they launched Chipotle segments and various challenges with the opportunity to win free ‘Lifestyle Bowls’. Z