Neptune is one of the newest blockchain short video apps that aims to compete with major players such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
The app, which is currently in beta, has attracted hundreds of thousands of users: 970 testers are participating in testing and 400,000 people are on the waiting list, according to the company.
On Monday, Neptune announced that it is preparing to launch the app on the App Store next week, with a launch on the Google Play Store planned in about six months.
The startup was founded by Ashley Darling, who previously worked as a talent development director at OPTYX, where she worked with “underrated” influencers. She set out to develop a platform that emphasizes creativity rather than the number of followers a creator has.
“I spent years working with independent creators, first as an influencer and then helping brands,” Darling told TechCrunch. “I kept hearing the same thing from creators and users alike: “I miss the days when social media was fun. When it was about creativity, not competition.” So instead of waiting for a platform to listen to me, I created one.”
With the future of TikTok still uncertain, Neptune hopes to attract creators looking for an alternative way to make money, as well as foster an environment that prioritizes video quality and connections over the number of followers. The app plans to offer various revenue streams, including tips, live broadcasts, and subscriptions.
Like its competitors, Neptune has a search tool and a vertical feed that allows users to watch short videos and leave comments. Additionally, users can add cover photos to their profiles, mimicking what X and other networking apps offer.
A key feature of Neptune is that it allows authors to hide the total number of followers and likes. This “ghost metrics” feature is optional and is designed to help users avoid the pressure of having too many followers, but still meets the interests of authors who may want to showcase their performance.
According to the company, the Neptune algorithm emphasizes user interests and content quality rather than author popularity. Typically, social media algorithms prioritize content with the most engagement, often disadvantaging lesser-known authors or “micro-influencers.”
“We put the power back in the hands of the [creators] who actually created the Internet. Not to corporations, not to algorithms. Neptune is about connecting, not influencing,” said Chief Marketing Officer Timur Tugberk.
Another notable feature is “Hop Back,” which allows users to continue watching videos from where they left off, preventing them from losing track of time when they refresh the app.
Neptune is in beta and does not yet offer all the planned features. For now, it’s the most basic app, offering only a video feed and a search function. While testing the app, we also noticed that it lacks editing and live messaging tools.
The company says it is working on adding live streaming, playlist creation, and music integration.
