10 Apps That Tried to Replace Instagram
Here's a look at the apps that once aimed to dethrone Instagram but never quite made it.
- Chris Graciano
- 2 min read
Many social media platforms have attempted to challenge Instagram’s dominance. Some focused on photo editing, others leaned into community building, and a few tried to reinvent sharing altogether. While each had its moment, none could fully capture the same magic that Instagram continues to hold.
1. VSCO
JoshUlm on Wikimedia Commons
VSCO gained popularity for its sleek photo-editing tools and artsy filters. It attracted a creative crowd that preferred aesthetics over likes.
2. Snapchat
Rubaitul Azad on Unsplash
Snapchat’s disappearing posts and quirky filters made it a strong competitor for a while. It revolutionized casual sharing, but its temporary nature didn’t rival Instagram’s polished permanence.
3. Path
Matt McGee on Flickr
Path tried to create an intimate social network limited to close friends. Its design was clean, but its restrictions kept it from going viral. Eventually, it faded into obscurity.
4. BeReal
Yura Fresh on Unsplash
BeReal pushed authenticity by limiting users to one unfiltered photo per day. It saw a spike in popularity with younger audiences.
5. Flickr
Michael on Flickr
Flickr was once the go-to site for photographers. While it thrived before Instagram, it struggled to adapt to mobile-first sharing.
6. Ello
Andrew Kimmell on Flickr
Ello branded itself as the anti-Facebook and Instagram, promising an ad-free experience. Artists and creatives loved it at first, but the hype died down quickly.
7. Vero
53Sundays on Wikimedia Commons
Vero launched as an ad-free, algorithm-free alternative. It promised a more “authentic” experience, but technical glitches and poor timing hurt its momentum.
8. Tumblr
The wub on Wikimedia Commons
Tumblr blended blogging with visual sharing and had a huge cult following. Many used it as an Instagram alternative for creativity and memes.
9. 500px
Julio Lopez on Unsplash
The app 500px targeted serious photographers looking to showcase portfolios. While great for professionals, it lacked the casual, social vibe Instagram thrived on.
10. Google+
03sezer on Wikimedia Commons
Google+ was Google’s attempt to rival Facebook and Instagram. Despite being forced onto millions of users, it never sparked genuine excitement.