Real life, right now - photo app claims to capture authenticity
It's not all sunsets and selfie smiles - people are flocking to a new social network app that calls on users to share true glimpses of their lives rather than cherry-picked moments.
Once a day, BeReal simultaneously prompts users to take photos of what they are doing, giving them two minutes. The app uses front and rear-facing cameras on phones, putting shared "selfies" into context.
The app shuns software filters that add glossy special effects or touch-up effects.
The approach is a sharp contrast to the carefully cultivated images common on Instagram and Facebook that often focus on parties, holidays, fancy food and perfect weather.
"The ideal of BeReal is you are just in a moment - where are you and what are you doing right now," said Jennifer Stromer-Galley, a professor at Syracuse University school of information studies in the United States.
"Our lived lives, not our best lives - maybe you are walking the dog or in your pajamas eating cereal."
Launched two years ago by French entrepreneurs, BeReal has seen its popularity surge in recent months.
It was the most downloaded app in the United States at start of September, and ranked among the top three in Britain and France,...