As the fate of TikTok in the US hangs in the balance, a new social media app, Connyct, is positioning itself as a viable alternative for college students. With its gated access, exclusive features, and focus on community building, Connyct is capitalizing on the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future.

Connyct's features are eerily similar to those of TikTok, with a personalized content feed, private chatting, and video creation and editing tools, including music, filters, stickers, and more. However, its unique selling point lies in its gated access, which requires users to register with a student .edu email to join. This creates a private network for students to chat and share content with their peers, free from the concerns of "creeps" or hovering parents often found on mainstream social media platforms.

According to Connyct's co-founder and CEO, Matthew Berman, the app aims to provide a safe and exclusive space for college students to express themselves without fear of judgment or unwanted attention. "Being a college kid, whether you're a man or a woman, TikTok and Instagram can be a really scary experience because you have creeps sliding into your DMs. You have all of these messages and comments that are very threatening. You're worried about posting things that your parents might see… or what future employers are going to say," Berman explained.

Connyct also boasts an event discovery page, where users can organize and participate in 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 the events they've attended. Additionally, users can join community channels to connect over shared interests, such as favorite artists, sports teams, and more.

In a move to promote the platform and enable college students to earn money from their content, Connyct has introduced an Ambassador program. This program allows students to monetize their content and provides bonuses for sign-ups using a unique promo code. Participants will also receive rewards such as free merchandise, event perks, gift cards, cash, and exclusive access to Connyct events. While Berman did not disclose the specific earnings potential for students, he mentioned that it varies and is not a fixed amount, depending on the different roles ambassadors take on.

Connyct's founding team, comprising industry veterans and notable advisors, may give it an edge over smaller competitors. Berman previously founded the Chunnel.TV network, which scaled to half a million monthly users with backing from Martin Sorrell and WPP. Connyct's chief music officer, Bill Campbell, has advised both Spotify and TikTok during the latter's transition from Musical.ly and its expansion into the US market. Additionally, Simmy Kustanowitz, the chief marketing officer, is a former executive producer of "Impractical Jokers."

Although Connyct was not developed directly by students, the team collaborated with around 50 college students from various institutions, including Louisiana State University, the University of California, the University of Maryland, Purdue University, the University of Texas, the University of Wisconsin, and others. Connyct also touted its discussions with NCAA four-time gymnastics champion Ian Gunther during his time as a student.

As Connyct expands its reach, it remains to be seen whether it can gain significant traction among college students. The app is currently only available on the App Store, with Android and desktop versions in the works. With the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future, Connyct may be well-positioned to capitalize on the void left by the popular short-form video app.

In the broader context, Connyct's emergence highlights the ongoing trend of social media platforms targeting specific demographics or interests. As the social media landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Connyct fares in the market and whether it can establish itself as a viable alternative for college students.