Do we really need another social media app for college students? With a TikTok ban looming in the US, a new app called Connyct seems to think so.
Connyct is very similar to popular short-form video apps, with personalized content feeds, private chats, music, filters, stickers, and more. We also have an event discovery section and community channels to help students stay connected and bond based on common interests.
This new app, initially only available in early access, will be available to more college students starting today.
Connyct's launch follows a recent unanimous decision by a federal appeals court to uphold a law that could ban TikTok in the United States unless it is severed from Chinese ownership. Connyct appears to be using the potential ban to fuel growth as younger users seek alternatives.
The main appeal of this app is that access is limited and users must register with their student's .edu email to participate. Each institution has its own private network where students can chat and share content with colleagues. The advantage of using a dedicated app is that students who know that only other students are viewing it, without worrying about being “creepy” or that their parents are watching on mainstream social media platforms. can post content.
In a conversation with TechCrunch, co-founder and CEO Matthew Berman said: There are a lot of very threatening messages and comments. I'm worried about posting something that my parents might see and what a future employer might say. ”
Another differentiator is the event discovery page where users can plan and attend nearby college parties and other events such as small hangouts, clubs, and Greek life activities. The app includes a dedicated video tab where students can post content highlighting events they have attended.
The platform is also developing features that will allow users to enhance their event pages by adding songs and dedicated playlists. In September, Connyct secured Warner Music Group as a launch partner to give users access to music from top artists as content.
Additionally, there are community channels where users can join and connect over common interests, such as their favorite artists, sports teams, and more.
To promote the platform and enable college students to earn money from their content, Connyct also offers an ambassador program. This allows students to monetize their content and offer bonuses for sign-ups using unique promo codes. Participants also receive rewards such as free merchandise, event perks, gift cards, cash, and exclusive access to Connyct events.
Berman declined to provide specific income potential for students, but said it varies depending on the different roles ambassadors take on and is not a fixed amount.
“Some will focus specifically on on-campus interviews. There will be different ambassadors that focus more on social posts. Some companies will focus more on events,” Berman explained, adding that revenue He pointed out that the potential of the company is on par with that of many existing companies.
Various social apps for universities pop up frequently, but few have gained much popularity. Facebook launched Campus in 2020 in an attempt to return to its college-focused roots, but it lacked traction and shut down two years later. However, there are successful apps out there. Launched in 2022, Fizz currently operates on 240 college campuses and 60 high schools and has raised a total of $41.5 million.
A potential advantage Connect has over smaller competitors is its founding team of industry veterans and prominent advisors.
For example, Berman previously founded the Chunnel.TV network, which he scaled to 500,000 monthly users with support from Martin Sorrell and WPP. Bill Campbell, chief music officer at Connyct, has advised Spotify and TikTok as they transitioned from Musical.ly and expanded into the U.S. market. Additionally, Chief Marketing Officer Simmy Kustanowitz is a former executive producer on Impractical Jokers. Connect also revealed that it is working with Nikita Via, founder of social networking app Gas, which was acquired by Discord.
Although the app was not developed directly by students, the team works with students from Louisiana State University, University of California, University of Maryland, Purdue University, University of Texas, University of Wisconsin, and others. Konikt is promoting a discussion with Ian Guenther, a four-time NCAA gymnastics champion during his collegiate career.
Connyct is currently available only on the App Store. Android and desktop versions are currently in development.