Meet Neptune, an alternative to TikTok that allows creators to hide likes and follower counts.

Neptune is being presented as a new short video application in a market already populated by established competitors such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. In its beta phase, it has attracted the attention of hundreds of thousands of users, with 970 active testers and 400,000 people on a waiting list, according to information provided by the company.

The platform, founded by Ashley Darling, who was the talent director at the OPTYX agency and worked with what she calls "underappreciated" influencers, aims to provide an environment that fosters creativity rather than focusing on follower counts. Darling has shared that her motivation for creating this app stemmed from the repeated complaints of creators and users about the lack of fun in social media, where competition has taken precedence over creativity. "Instead of waiting for a platform to listen, I decided to build one," she expressed.

With TikTok's future still uncertain, Neptune hopes to attract creators seeking alternative ways to monetize their content, prioritizing the quality of videos and connections over simply counting followers. The app will offer various ways to generate income, including tips, live streams, and subscriptions. Like its competitors, Neptune features a discovery tool and a vertical feed that allows users to swipe through short videos and engage via comments. Additionally, users can add a cover photo to their profiles, mimicking features from social networking apps like X.

One of the distinguishing features of Neptune is the option for creators to hide their total follower counts and "likes." This "ghost metrics" feature is optional and aims to help users avoid the pressure associated with follower counts while accommodating creators who prefer to display their metrics. According to the company, Neptune's algorithm focuses on user interests and content quality, unlike others that prioritize creator popularity.

Marketing director Timur Tugberk emphasized that "we're giving power back to the creators who truly built the internet. Not to corporations, nor algorithms. Neptune is about connection, not influence." Another interesting feature is "Hop Back," which allows users to resume watching a video right where they left off, preventing them from losing their place when the app updates.

Currently in beta, Neptune does not offer all the planned functionalities, presenting itself simply with just a video feed and a search function. During testing, it was noted that it lacks editing tools within the app and direct messaging. However, the company is working on implementing live streaming capabilities, playlist creation, and music integrations.