TikTok maker launches interest-based social chat app Flipchat: Details here
ByteDance, the maker of popular and highly controversial video-sharing service TikTok, has launched Feiliao (Flipchat in English), an all-new social messaging app. The service has been described as an interest-based social app combining conventional instant messaging features with forum-like capabilities for discussing specific topics. It is available on both Android and iOS devices, but only in China, TechCrunch reported. Here are the details.
Emphasis on participating in interest-driven communities
Flipchat, as one could guess, offers conventional chat app features like audio, video calls and instant messaging. But, in addition to this, the app will allow you to discover new friends on the basis of your interests. Basically, it packs a social network-like feed as well as options to create forums and chat groups centered around specific interests, hobbies, and more.
Two types of chat groups can be created
With Flipchat, users will have the option to join chat groups based on any topic of interest, be it movies, comics, fan theory, science, or cooking. However, TechNode reports that there would be two kinds of chat groups - normal and open. The former would come with a limit of 100 members/group while the latter would be a public place with no member limits.
Other features in Flipchat
Along with interest-driven conversations, Flipchat will offer photo, video, and GIF sharing capabilities, much like WhatsApp. The app will also feature voice recognition for messaging, a camera with special effects, filters, soundtracks, and stickers, and an Alipay-backed payment option.
Another WeChat competitor?
The launch of Flipchat comes just a few months after the introduction of a Snapchat-like video app Duoshan from ByteDance. The app will be going against WeChat, which has over 1.1 billion monthly active users, but not directly. WeChat is more of an all-purpose app with functions ranging from messaging to ride-hailing, while Flipchat will focus on the niche of interest-driven connections and interactions.
No word on global availability
Flipchat has been launched for Android and iOS devices, but the app is only available on the Apple App Store. The Android version, on the other side, has to be downloaded and installed as an APK from the company's website. Notably, there is also no word on when the product will be available globally, like the immensely popular TikTok.
