This week, the Instagram alternative Flashes officially launched its photo-sharing application based on Bluesky, achieving nearly 30,000 downloads within its first 24 hours. The app provides a familiar experience reminiscent of Instagram, enabling users to upload up to four images and videos lasting up to one minute.

Created by Berlin-based developer Sebastian Vogelsang, Flashes operates on the same foundational protocol as Bluesky, known as the AT Protocol (or simply atproto).

Thanks to its integration with Bluesky, which boasts over 32 million users, Flashes is positioned to tap into an existing audience. This means that all posts shared through the Flashes app can also be viewed by Bluesky users, widening the potential reach beyond just Flashes users.

While Flashes shares similarities with Instagram, it offers a greater degree of customization.

Rather than being constrained by a company-driven algorithm, users on Flashes can access over 50,000 customizable feeds on Bluesky, allowing for tailored content curation. Additionally, the app features options for viewing both top and latest posts across the Bluesky platform.

The app also introduces features that appeal to photographers eager to showcase their talents.

For instance, the “Portfolio Mode” allows users to selectively display the media that will be visible to profile visitors, enabling them to highlight their best work.

Moreover, users can edit their Flashes posts with integrated photo filters, similar to those found on Instagram.

Another fresh update centers around curated feeds from artists.

To kick off this enhancement, Flashes is featuring content from the Blacksky community, which has been developing Bluesky tools tailored for the Black community and includes services like Blacksky feeds and a dedicated moderation service, along with other technical advancements.

Vogelsang has mentioned he is in talks with investors regarding funding opportunities. As of Thursday, the app recorded 40,500 downloads and positions itself as part of a growing movement of apps leveraging the Bluesky platform.