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Mark Cuban backs Skylight, a TikTok alternative built on Bluesky’s underlyingtechnology
Skylight, a new social media app backed by Mark Cuban, is launching as a TikTok alternative built on the AT Protocol, the same technology as Bluesky. It offers short-form videos with familiar features and immediate access to Bluesky's 33.8 million users. Co-founders Tori White and Reed Hermeyer were motivated to create a decentralized platform, especially amid concerns about TikTok bans in the U.S.
Key points
- Skylight launches as a TikTok alternative on the AT Protocol, developed in just 10 weeks.
- Backed by Mark Cuban and other investors, including Graham & Walker Venture Fund.
- Users can access a familiar short-form video experience with editing tools and social features.
- Skylight taps into Bluesky's user base of over 33.8 million through the AT Protocol.
- Co-founder Tori White's influencer background helped build anticipation and an early user base via TikTok.
- Future features may include enhanced customization of feeds and new video functionalities.
Why it matters
- Skylight's emergence reflects a growing trend towards decentralized social media platforms.
- The increasing concern over data privacy and government regulations regarding major platforms like TikTok spurs the development of alternatives.
- The AT Protocol's adoption indicates a shift towards more resilient social media architectures compared to traditional models.
Skylight represents a promising shift in social media, leveraging decentralized protocols to provide a TikTok-like experience while addressing users' concerns over platform stability and data privacy.