4 new social media platforms to watch out for in 2024

social media platforms

With continuous issues of ads, difficulties in monetisation for content creators, and a general lack of content visibility on existing social media platforms, users are now looking for new platforms that not only address problems, but also highlight niche audiences and approaches. Here are a few new or niche social media platforms that have been gaining popularity, along with their unique features and potential impact on the social media landscape.

1. Clubhouse

Clubhouse is an audio-based social networking app that allows users to participate in live discussions, interviews, and panels on various topics. Unlike traditional social media platforms, Clubhouse prioritises real-time, voice-only interactions, fostering meaningful conversations and connections. Its exclusivity (invite-only) and focus on audio content make it a unique platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and community building.

Potential impact: Clubhouse has the potential to revolutionize the way people engage with social media by prioritising authentic, voice-based communication over text and visuals. Its popularity has spurred interest from other tech giants, leading to the development of similar features on platforms like Twitter (Spaces) and Facebook (Live Audio Rooms).

2. TikTok

While TikTok is not exactly “new” anymore, its rapid rise in popularity and unique content format warrant inclusion. TikTok is a short-form video-sharing app where users can create and discover entertaining content, ranging from lip-syncing and dancing to comedy sketches and educational videos. Its algorithmic feed, which learns user preferences and serves personalised content, has contributed to its widespread appeal among Gen Z and younger demographics.

Potential impact: TikTok’s success has demonstrated the growing importance of short-form video content and algorithmic recommendation systems in shaping social media consumption habits. Its influence has prompted other platforms to incorporate similar features, such as Instagram’s Reels and YouTube’s Shorts, reflecting a broader trend towards bite-sized, engaging content.

3. Discord

Discord is a communication platform originally designed for gamers but has since expanded to cater to broader communities. It offers text, voice, and video chat features, as well as the ability to create private or public servers for specific interests or topics. Discord emphasises real-time communication, collaboration, and community engagement, making it popular among gamers, hobbyists, and professionals alike.

Potential impact: Discord’s versatility and flexibility make it well-suited for fostering niche communities and facilitating real-time interactions across various interests and industries. Its role as a social hub extends beyond gaming, offering opportunities for networking, content creation, and community building in diverse contexts.

4. Vero

Vero is a social media platform that aims to give users greater control over their privacy and content sharing. It features a chronological feed, no ads, and options to categorize connections into close friends, friends, acquaintances, and followers. Vero also allows users to share various types of content with different audience segments, including photos, videos, links, and recommendations.

Potential impact: Vero’s emphasis on privacy, content authenticity, and user control addresses some concerns associated with mainstream social media platforms, such as algorithmic manipulation and data privacy issues. While its user base is relatively smaller compared to giants like Facebook and Instagram, Vero’s growth suggests a demand for alternative platforms that prioritize user experience and privacy rights.

These new or niche social media platforms showcase diverse approaches to content creation, community engagement, and privacy management, challenging the dominance of established players and driving innovation in the social media landscape. 

As they continue to gain traction and evolve, their impact on user behaviour, content trends, and industry standards will be worth monitoring. Who knows where these new platforms could take the scene? We’ve got all of 2024 to find out.

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Paulo Rizal
Paulo Rizal
Paulo Rizal is a content producer for Comms Room. He writes content around popular media, journalism, social media, and more.