Startup Zigazoo introduced the Zigazoo app as “healthier” TikTok alternatives for kids. It is aimed at representatives of Generation Z – children aged 13 and over. For children of the alpha generation (3-12 years old), who were attracted by the previous version of Zigazoo, there will now be a Zigazoo Kids application – users will be automatically transferred. The new version of Zigazoo is by invitation only and will be released on Saturday, March 25th.
Image source: Zigazoo
Like Zigazoo Kids, the new buzzer app is a video streaming style platform that doesn’t allow users to type comments on videos. Instead, users can reply to each other with short videos, which the company believes will reduce negative comments and trolling. Users can also respond to video prompts such as “What are your favorite sports?” or “What are you up to?”
In addition to prohibiting negativity on the platform, the app includes other security measures such as optional personal accounts, human moderation, and an algorithm “Encourage positivity”, the company said in a statement. However, unlike Zigazoo Kids, the Gen Z app does not require parental consent to use and has a direct messaging feature that uses automatic moderation software.
Other new features available in the Zigazoo app include searchable music and popular sounds, and allow all users to create vibes – videos that require user reactions. This is another difference from Zigazoo Kids where only verified creators and brands can create vibe videos.
Content ranges from dance and music to fashion, games and memes. In addition, Zigazoo will launch entertainment channels hosted by well-known personalities. Zigazoo claims to provide this “non-toxic” Environment for Gen Z as many are put off by social media with unrealistic ideals of beauty, cyberbullying and age-inappropriate content. According to a study by ORIGIN, 48% of Gen Z said social media makes them anxious, sad, or depressed. 61% of respondents admitted to detoxing on social media.
Zigazoo’s launch is notable given yesterday’s congressional hearing, where TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew sought to dissuade senators from the app’s influence on minors, while arguing that parents are primarily responsible for children’s use of the app.
Zigazoo co-founder Zak Ringelstein said of the launch of the new app: “We see this moment as a major social media reset where TikTok and Snapchat and Meta could be banned* suffer heavy losses. We want better social media, less toxic social media, and I think now is the time.”
Another reason Zigazoo saw an opportunity for a new app, according to Zach, is that Zigazoo Kids is already being used by many kids ages 12-14 (and older), which accounts for about 31% of its users. “We decided to launch the new platform after seeing how many Gen Zers have already migrated to Zigazoo in search of a more positive and authentic environment. We wanted to create a social media haven for them.”he added.
Startup Zigazoo was launched in 2020 as “healthier” a social media platform that allows children to watch or create 30-second videos based on assignments or educational prompts. A child in Zigazoo Kids can only be registered by an adult via a Facebook account*, Google or Apple. It also depends on the parents whether their child’s video is published publicly or remains closed to outsiders. Zigazoo Kids is kidSAFE COPPA certified.
The company has raised a total of $20 million from major investors including well-known athletes, actors and other celebrities. The app currently has over 3 million installs and over 250 verified developers and brands including Nickelodeon, Warner Bros., Paramount, Amazon, Apple TV+, Netflix, WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) and Mattel.
* It is included in the list of public associations and religious organizations for which the court made a final decision to liquidate or ban activities on the grounds provided for in Federal Law No. 114-FZ of July 25. 2002 “On Countering Extremist Activities”.
Add Comment