I’m curious if there’s a decentralized platform in the Fediverse specifically designed for hosting media, similar to platforms like:

Imgur

Flickr

ImageShack

ImgPile

mgbox

etc.

While I’m aware of fantastic Fediverse platforms like PeerTube and PixelFed, they are more focused on video sharing or image-heavy social networking.

What I’m looking for is a straightforward platform built specifically to host media (images, GIFs, short videos, etc.) for embedding on other platforms within the Fediverse, such as Lemmy, Friendica, Misskey, or others.

Essentially, a decentralized (preferably Federated) service where the main purpose is lightweight hosting for use on external apps, so individual platforms don’t have to shoulder all the storage and bandwidth demands for image or media content.

Does something like this already exist in the Fediverse ecosystem, or is it a gap that still needs to be addressed?

If not, then I personally believe that it could be a fantastic idea for fostering better interoperability and resource sharing across the Fediverse.

Perhaps name it something like:

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PixelPort

A playful blend indicating a "port" or gateway for pixels and media.

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FediVault

Combines "Fediverse" and "Vault," suggesting a secure space for media storage.

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Mediabox

Simple and straightforward, suggesting a box where media can be stored and shared.

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FediMedia

A straightforward approach that ties the platform directly to the Fediverse.

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FediHost

FediHoster

FediHostr

A clear and concise name that combines "Fediverse" and "host," indicating a dedicated space for decentralized federated media hosting.

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I’d love to try and create something like this myself, but I’ll admit I lack the knowledge, time, and energy to bring such a project to life.

I’m hoping this post will inspire some discussion or attention from others who might be interested in exploring this idea further.

Would love your thoughts, suggestions, or knowledge about any projects I may have overlooked.

I've been thinking about the potential for a decentralized, federated version of the new social media platform Neptune.

For those unfamiliar, Neptune is a rising star in the social media world that's gaining traction on Tiktok for its unique approach to content creation and distribution, especially given the whole TikTok situation.

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Here's a quick overview:

What is Neptune?

• A new social media app focused on decentralizing media
• Empowers creators with customizable content feeds
• Uses "ghost metrics" to highlight work without the pressure of visible likes/shares
• Aims to foster genuine connections and community
• Similar to TikTok but with a stronger emphasis on integrity and user control
• Has gained over 5,000 sign-ups and built an active Discord community

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The Fediverse Opportunity

Given the Fediverse's commitment to decentralization and user empowerment, I wonder if there's any potential to create a federated alternative that captures Neptune's best features while leveraging the strengths of the Fediverse, or would we just be basically remaking Loops by Pixelfed?

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Some questions to consider:

1. How could we implement customizable content feeds in a federated environment?
2. Is there a way to incorporate "ghost metrics" or similar concepts to reduce social pressure?
3. What existing Fediverse projects might serve as a foundation for this kind of platform?
4. How can we ensure creator empowerment while maintaining the open, interconnected nature of the Fediverse?

I lack the technical skills, as well as the time, to tackle this myself, but I'm curious about the community's thoughts.

Has anyone considered a project like this?

What challenges and/or opportunities do you see?

Looking forward to hearing your ideas.

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Neptune's official website: https://theneptuneapp.com/

Neptune Discord: https://discord.gg/theneptuneapp

A discussion about Neptune on Linus Tech Tips forum: https://linustechtips.com/topic/1592379-new-social-media-app-neptune/

https://youtu.be/GZRuRpzFslg?si=F3W9q4Pnen2XGRXd

Neptune App TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theneptuneapp?_t=8sd66XMyQrG&_r=1

Hey everyone,

I've been pondering an idea thats been stuck in my head since forever and wanted to get your thoughts on it.

Has anyone ever considered the possibility of developing a line of code or a platform that runs on Activitypub that allows non-ActivityPub protocols to integrate seamlessly into the Fediverse?

Imagine a system where platforms like Bluesky, NOSTR, or other Protocol-based networks could "plug in" to the Fediverse.

This would effectively translate their unique protocols into ActivityPub, enabling interaction without requiring these platforms to adopt ActivityPub themselves.

Think of it like a tree: ActivityPub serves as the trunk, while non-ActivityPub platforms form the branches.

This approach could SIGNIFICANTLY expand the Fediverse and make it accessible to platforms reluctant to natively support ActivityPub.

As well as allow various platforms with different protocols to interact with each other, without the need to use "Bridges", "Mirroring", etc.

Don't get me wrong, im not hating on Ryan, Fedy bridge, etc., but services like those are basically using Sticking Plasters, Duct Tape, and Chewing Gum to try and stick together different platforms.

I find this idea interesting, but I lack the coding skills, time, and energy to pursue it.

I'm curious if any developers or tech enthusiasts here have ever thought about, or worked on, something similar.

What challenges do you foresee, and could this be a viable path for potentially expanding the Fediverse?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas.

Does anyone know if there are any Fediverse equivalent/alternatives to platforms like:

• Wattpad
• SquidgeWorld Archive
• Archive of Our Own (AO3)
• FanFiction.Net (FFN)

etc.?

If not, has anyone ever considered potentially creating one?

I personally think that it could be a great addition to the Fediverse ecosystem, allowing writers to share their work in a decentralized manner.

Some potential names for such a platform could be:

• FediFics
• FediPad
• FediFan
• WriteVerse
• FediFiction
• StoryNode
• TaleChain etc.

Perhaps use "FediFiction.net" (or "FediFics.net", "FediFanFiction.net", or "FediFan.net") as the FFN Fediverse Alternative, and "FediPad" for Wattpad?

IDK.

I would consider developing this myself, but I not only lack the time, I also don't have any coding ability.

However, I personally believe that this could be an exciting project for someone with the right skills and interest in both the Fediverse and creative writing communities.

Hey everyone,

I was curious on whether anyone has ever thought about potentially introducing a Fediverse equivalent to platforms like:

• Ko-fi
• Patreon
• Gumroad
• LiberaPay
• Buy Me a Coffee
• Web Monetization (e.g., Coil) etc.

What I’m imagining is a decentralized platform that allows users across the Fediverse to directly tip or support creators, all without relying on plugins or third-party integrations.

For instance, I know that creators on platforms like PeerTube can add plugins for cryptocurrency or payment solutions, but these require additional configuration or technical know-how.

What I’m suggesting is a straightforward tipping platform built directly into the Fediverse ecosystem, one that doesn’t depend on plugins—just a seamless way to support creators on ALL Fediverse platforms.

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To clarify upfront:

• I am NOT a “crypto bro.” I’m not here to promote any cryptocurrency or blockchain agenda—I’m just thinking about user-friendly, decentralized solutions.
• While I AM open-minded about crypto-based approaches, I feel there’s potential for a non-crypto, user-first Fediverse tipping system.

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What do you all think?

• Has this idea been explored?
• Are there any projects in the works that aim to address this?
• Do you think it’s feasible or even a good fit for the Fediverse ethos?

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I’d love to attempt something like this myself, but sadly I personally lack the time, technical knowledge, and energy to make it happen.

Still, I’d be really curious to hear the community’s thoughts.

Thanks in advance for sharing your insights.

(Apologies for the long Post)

This post isn’t meant to throw shade at anyone or stir up drama, but I wanted to ask something I’ve been thinking about for a while.

Is it just me, or does anyone else feel that the Fediverse – and many platforms within it – can be somewhat super complicated, at least from the perspective of the average person?

As the saying goes, “Society can only move as fast as its slowest member.”

And honestly, I think the average user (myself included sometimes!) struggles with the way the Fediverse operates compared to more familiar centralized platforms.

Take Mastodon, for example.

It’s widely loved, and there’s a lot to admire about its decentralized, federated nature.

But for new users, the concept of picking an instance, understanding federation, knowing what happens if your instance goes down, etc. can be daunting.

Now compare that to something like Bluesky.

While Bluesky isn’t federated, it’s still decentralized thanks to its use of the AT Protocol.

Yet, it still manages to feel like a traditional, centralized platform in terms of usability, onboarding, and general experience.

Other examples abound, where certain Fediverse tools feel designed more for tech-savvy users than the “average Joe” who just wants to sign up, post, and connect seamlessly.

This brings me to the KISS principle:

Keep It Simple, Stupid.

For those unfamiliar, KISS is a design philosophy that emphasizes simplicity.

Complex systems, while often powerful, can be harder to understand, troubleshoot, and maintain.

It’s a reminder that sometimes the best path forward is the simplest one.

And I can’t help but wonder:

Could the Fediverse benefit from more simplicity in design and user experience?

I completely understand that the Fediverse’s complexity is often a result of its strengths:

decentralization,

choice,

openness,

and

privacy.

But is there a way to achieve these values while making the experience more approachable, as well as potentially simplified?

• What do you think? Can the Fediverse strike a balance between power and simplicity?
• Have you had moments where explaining the Fediverse to someone felt like explaining how email servers work instead of just sending an email?
• Do you think platforms like Mastodon could take cues from Bluesky or others when it comes to onboarding and user experience? Or is the current complexity a necessary trade-off?

Potential Simplification Strategies for the Fediverse

1. Unified Onboarding Process

   • Description: Develop a standardized onboarding procedure that introduces users to key features and concepts of different Fediverse platforms, reducing the initial learning curve.

2. Cross-Platform Tutorials

   • Description: Create detailed, interactive tutorials that cover the fundamental aspects of multiple Fediverse platforms, allowing users to quickly gain proficiency.

3. Simplified Instance Selection

   • Description: Develop an intuitive instance selection tool that helps users find instances that match their interests and community standards, possibly based on user feedback and ratings.

4. Visual Federation Guides

   • Description: Implement visual aids, such as infographics or flowcharts, that illustrate how federation works, helping users understand how content is shared across different platforms.

5. Universal Fediverse Account

   • Description: Explore the possibility of a single account system that allows users to seamlessly log into multiple Fediverse platforms without needing to create separate accounts for each instance.

6. Standardized UI Elements

   • Description: Encourage developers to adopt common user interface elements across Fediverse platforms, creating a more cohesive experience that helps users feel at home regardless of which platform they are using.

7. Community Support Hubs

   • Description: Establish dedicated support communities that offer guidance, resources, and FAQs, making it easier for newcomers to find help without feeling overwhelmed.

8. User-Friendly Language

   • Description: Simplify technical jargon and use more accessible language in platform interfaces and documentation to make them easier to understand for non-technical users.

9. Feedback Mechanisms

   • Description: Implement easy-to-use feedback tools within platforms that allow users to share their experiences and suggest improvements directly to developers.

10. Mobile-Friendly Designs

    • Description: Prioritize responsive and mobile-friendly designs to ensure users can easily navigate and interact with Fediverse platforms on various devices.

11. Gamified Learning Experiences

    • Description: Introduce gamified tutorials that reward users for completing tasks and learning about different features, making the onboarding experience fun and engaging.

12. Streamlined Content Discovery

    • Description: Enhance content discovery mechanisms by implementing smart algorithms that curate and recommend content based on user preferences, reducing the complexity of finding relevant posts.

By implementing these strategies, the Fediverse can move towards a more user-friendly environment that welcomes newcomers and supports them in navigating the diverse range of platforms available.