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BeReal: Definition, Origin, and Impact on Social Media

Updated on September 25, 2024
Image of author Pragya

By Pragya, Posted

BeReal: Definition, Origin, and Impact on Social Media

Table of content

What is BeReal?

BeReal is a revolutionary social media platform that has taken the digital world by storm. Unlike traditional social networks, BeReal encourages users to share unfiltered, spontaneous moments from their daily lives. The app's unique concept revolves around authenticity and real-time sharing, challenging the curated perfection often associated with other social media platforms.

Origin and Development of BeReal

Founded in 2020 by French entrepreneurs Alexis Barreyat and Kévin Perreau, BeReal was born out of a desire to create a more genuine social media experience. The app gained significant traction in 2022, particularly among younger users seeking a break from the polished facades of Instagram and TikTok.

How BeReal Works

BeReal's functionality is refreshingly simple:

  1. Daily notification: Once a day, at a random time, all users receive a simultaneous notification.
  2. Two-minute window: Users have just two minutes to capture and share a photo.
  3. Dual camera feature: The app takes a photo using both front and back cameras simultaneously.
  4. View and interact: Users can only see their friends' posts after sharing their own.

This unique approach ensures that everyone participates on equal footing, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.

Popular Examples of BeReal Posts

BeReal posts, often called "BeReals," typically showcase everyday moments:

  • Students studying in libraries
  • Office workers at their desks
  • Friends having casual hangouts
  • People cooking or enjoying meals
  • Individuals relaxing at home

The charm of BeReal lies in these ordinary, unfiltered glimpses into people's lives.

Impact of BeReal on Social Media Culture

BeReal has significantly impacted social media culture in several ways:

  1. Authenticity movement: It has spearheaded a shift towards more genuine, unfiltered content.
  2. Reduced social comparison: By showing real moments, it may help alleviate the negative effects of social comparison often associated with highly curated feeds.
  3. Mindful usage: The once-a-day posting limit encourages more intentional and less addictive social media use.
  4. FOMO reduction: Since everyone posts at the same time, it reduces the "fear of missing out" often experienced on other platforms.

Controversies or Debates Surrounding BeReal

While BeReal has been largely well-received, it's not without its controversies:

  1. Authenticity questions: Some users still manage to curate their BeReal moments, leading to debates about true authenticity.
  2. Privacy concerns: The spontaneous nature of the app has raised concerns about inadvertently sharing sensitive information or locations.
  3. Technical issues: Users have reported frustrations with app crashes and delays, especially during peak posting times.

How Brands and Influencers Use BeReal

Initially, BeReal positioned itself as an ad-free, influencer-free zone. However, as its popularity grew, brands and influencers have found creative ways to engage on the platform:

  • Behind-the-scenes content: Brands use BeReal to show the human side of their operations.
  • Product launches: Some companies time product reveals with BeReal notifications.
  • Influencer authenticity: Influencers use BeReal to show more genuine, unscripted moments to their followers.

It's important to note that BeReal doesn't currently offer official advertising options, so brand presence remains organic and limited.

Future Trends Related to BeReal

As BeReal continues to evolve, several trends are emerging:

  1. Integration of BeReal-like features: Other social media giants are incorporating similar authenticity-focused features.
  2. Potential monetization: As the platform grows, there may be pressure to introduce monetization strategies.
  3. Enhanced features: BeReal might introduce new features to maintain user engagement while preserving its core authenticity principle.
  4. Cross-platform sharing: There's a growing trend of users sharing their BeReal posts on other social media platforms.

FAQs about BeReal

  1. Is BeReal really unfiltered? While the app encourages spontaneity, users still have control over what they choose to capture and share.

  2. Can I see BeReal posts from people I don't follow? BeReal has a "Discovery" section where you can see public posts from users worldwide.

  3. What happens if I miss the daily BeReal notification? You can still post late, but your friends will see that your post was delayed.

  4. Is BeReal safe for younger users? BeReal has age restrictions and privacy settings, but as with any social media, parental guidance is recommended for younger users.

  5. Can I delete a BeReal post? Yes, you can delete your posts, but the app encourages keeping them as a record of your daily moments.

BeReal represents a significant shift in social media culture, prioritizing authenticity over perfection. As users increasingly seek genuine connections online, platforms like BeReal are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of digital interactions. Whether it's a passing trend or a lasting change in social media behavior, BeReal has undoubtedly made its mark on the digital landscape, encouraging users to share their lives as they truly are – unfiltered and in real-time.

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