Everything you need to know about Flashes, the Bluesky-based Instagram alternative

This year, a new app called Flashes has emerged as a compelling alternative to Instagram, leveraging the Bluesky social network. Now available for download on the App Store, Flashes reimagines how users interact with visual content, moving away from the conventional timeline feed seen in apps like X, and instead drawing inspiration from photo-centric platforms. Developed by Sebastian Vogelsang from Berlin, Flashes operates on the AT Protocol that underpins Bluesky, ensuring it maintains consistent image and video posting standards. Initially, users could upload up to four images and videos not exceeding one minute each. However, following a recent update on March 10, Bluesky version 1.99 now allows video uploads of up to three minutes. Similar to Instagram, Flashes offers a user-friendly scrollable feed filled with photos and videos, along with profiles and photo filters to enhance user experience. A significant advantage for Flashes users is immediate access to the expansive Bluesky community, which boasts over 37 million users. Even if not every Bluesky user is on Flashes, their visual content is still accessible through the app, filtering the Bluesky feed for images and videos. When users post on Flashes, their content is simultaneously shared on Bluesky. To maintain privacy between the two networks, users may consider creating a separate Bluesky account. Flashes also allows users to navigate their own Bluesky feeds and explore over 50,000 custom feeds that cater to various interests, including art, gardening, and even video content. As users scroll through Flashes, they can engage by liking, reposting, and commenting on posts, with all interactions reflected in both Flashes and Bluesky. For photographers, the app features a “Portfolio” setting that enables them to showcase selected images on their profile, allowing for greater customization. To use Flashes, a Bluesky account is necessary. Existing users can log in with their credentials, while new users can easily sign up for a Bluesky account within the app. The default setup links to the primary Bluesky server, but technically savvy individuals have the option to choose a custom host. Once registered, users can dive straight into browsing content or sharing their own media. Vogelsang aims for Flashes to attract a broader audience to the Bluesky platform, particularly those seeking alternatives to Meta’s offerings. However, Flashes is not the only player in this space; another app, Pinksky, is also developing a similar experience. Future updates for Flashes are planned, including push notifications, multiple account support, bookmarks, and enhanced editing features. Additionally, subscription options with premium features are on the horizon to support further development for Android and web users. Upcoming functionalities may include improved layouts for iPad, longer video support, temporary posts akin to Stories, and seamless media transfers from other platforms. Ultimately, Vogelsang envisions Flashes evolving into its own platform, while still integrating with Bluesky’s network. The app is currently free to download from the App Store and requires iOS 17 or later to function effectively.