Pinksky Expands to Android, Bringing an Instagram-Like Experience

Android users looking for a photo-centric social networking alternative now have a new option. Pinksky, an app built on the decentralized Bluesky network, has officially launched on Android, offering an Instagram-like experience but with an open technology foundation.

Developed by Ramon Souza, Pinksky was first introduced on iOS and is designed for users who prioritize photo sharing and social connections over algorithm-driven content discovery. Unlike Instagram, which heavily promotes short-form video and viral content, Pinksky focuses on a more classic approach to social networking.

“There are several user segments within Instagram: those who watch a lot of reels, those who follow content creators, and those who want to connect with friends,” Souza told TechCrunch. “I think Pinksky fits into the third segment – focused more on photos and connections rather than viral and repetitive content.”

Pinksky retains many familiar features from Instagram, including user profiles with photos, a main feed of images and videos, and a Stories section where posts disappear after 24 hours. However, because it operates within Bluesky’s AT Protocol (atproto) framework, it has some technical limitations – such as a maximum of four photos per post and one-minute videos.

Since Pinksky is built on Bluesky, users can seamlessly log in and retain their existing social connections. Souza has hinted that if demand grows, he may explore expanding beyond Bluesky to integrate with other open technologies like Mastodon, Pixelfed, or Nostr. However, since he currently funds the project himself, future developments may require a business model, such as premium features.

Pinksky enters a growing space of alternative photo-sharing apps, competing with platforms like Flashes, Pixelfed, and Reelo, as the demand for decentralized social media continues to rise.