A decentralized short-form video app, Loops, is making waves in the tech community as a potential alternative to TikTok. Developed by Daniel Supernault, the creator of Instagram alternative Pixelfed, Loops is built on the principles of the fediverse, a decentralized network of social media platforms.

Signups for Loops opened this week, allowing users to post up to 60-second videos, with features like sound integration, video remixing, and pinned profile videos on the horizon. The app will initially be available on iOS through Apple's TestFlight program, with an Android version to follow.

What sets Loops apart is its community-driven moderation system, which relies on human moderators and a trust score-based approach to content review. This approach ensures that users with a high trust score can post content without delay, while those with lower scores will have their content held for moderation.

Loops' commitment to user-owned content and its rejection of third-party advertising and AI training sets it apart from traditional social media platforms. The platform is instead funded through grants, sponsorships, and donations.

As Loops continues to develop its fediverse integration and prepares to open-source its code, it's clear that this decentralized TikTok alternative is one to watch in the startup and tech communities. With its focus on community-driven moderation and user empowerment, Loops may just become the go-to platform for creators looking for a more democratic and transparent social media experience.