Weekly Prompt: Bluesky to get photo app and other news

Bluesky to get dedicated photo app called "Flashes"

A new photo-sharing app named Flashes is poised to launch on the Bluesky social network. Developed by Berlin-based Sebastian Vogelsang, Flashes leverages the AT Protocol, the same decentralised technology that powers Bluesky itself. The app builds upon the codebase of Vogelsang's previous Bluesky client, Skeets, which caters to iPad and visually impaired users.

Flashes aims to provide a visually-focused experience for Bluesky's growing user base of over 27.5 million. The app will allow users to share photos (up to four images) and videos (up to one minute long), mirroring Bluesky's existing media capabilities. Posts made on Flashes will also appear on Bluesky, and comments will be synchronised between the two platforms. Direct messaging will also be supported.

While drawing inspiration from existing photo-sharing platforms, Flashes is not intended to be a direct clone of Instagram and will not offer an identical feature set. The app filters Bluesky's timeline to showcase visual content. Future plans include adding metadata to Flashes posts to manage the flow of photo content on the main Bluesky app.

Flashes is expected to launch publicly within weeks, following a TestFlight beta release. A subscription model is being developed to integrate premium features across both Skeets and Flashes, while maintaining free access to core functionalities. A video-focused app, Blue Screen, is also in the pipeline.

Source: TechCrunch

Additional prompts

Pinterest just launched its Pinterest Palette report, forecasting the top five colour trends for 2025: Cherry Red, Butter Yellow, Aura Indigo, Dill Green, and Alpine Oat. These colours, identified through user search and save data, range from vibrant reds and sunny yellows to tranquil greens and grounding neutrals. They're poised to resonate with audiences and influence design, beauty, fashion, and interiors, offering brands valuable insights for mood boards, product launches, and creative campaigns. Read more

A new iOS app called Steppin aims to curb screen time by tying social media access to daily step counts. Developed by Kayak founder Paul English, the app unlocks social media usage based on achieved step goals. Users customize the step-to-screen-time ratio and can override restrictions if necessary. While aimed at Gen Z, the app's creators believe it can benefit users of all ages. Currently free, Steppin plans to introduce a ~$20 annual subscription. Future updates will include tracking various physical activities and a leaderboard feature. An Android version is also in development. Read more

Google is empowering retailers with new generative AI tools. Retailers can now build AI-powered sales agents via Google Agentspace, offering personalised product recommendations and automating tasks like inventory management and customer service. Enhanced features in Vertex AI Search for Commerce improve the customer experience, while advancements in image-to-video and image generation tools streamline operations. New AI development partners will further assist businesses in integrating these technologies. These tools aim to boost sales, improve customer experience, and free up staff for higher-value work. Read more