Currently, social networks are not only made to publish content about our lives. Besides the most famous platforms such as Instagram, X, Facebook, and TikTok, we can now find applications to make friends or find partners.
These applications allow people to connect with others around the world, and share their interests and experiences. One of the most used in terms of friendship is Yubo, which has existed since 2015 and was created by 3 French engineering students.
It has more than 50 million users worldwide and is especially popular among teens and young adults. However, if you think Yubo is not for you, there are many options that are similar to it.
What is Yubo?
Yubo is a social app that allows users to connect with others around the world through instant messaging, live streaming and gaming. The application has a geolocation feature that allows users to find people near them.
It also has a live streaming feature that allows users to broadcast their own lives in real-time. Viewers can interact with the streamers by sending messages, gifts and reactions.
It is a free app but offers a premium subscription that provides access to additional features, such as the ability to remove ads, see who has seen you and chat anonymously.
3 apps that are similar to Yubo
Hoop
Hoop, a French app created in 2019, is directed primarily at teenagers and young adults who want to make new friends. Like in Tinder, users can swipe profiles and connect with those who share affinities.
Key features:
- Geolocation: This makes it easy to find people with similar interests who live near you.
- Instant messaging.
- Video calls.
- Games: It has a variety of games that you can play with other users. This is a fun way to pass the time and meet new people.
Tango Live
The Tango platform, behind Tango Live, was founded in 2009 in the United States. Although not specifically created for making friends, Tango Live is a live-streaming platform that allows users to broadcast live videos and connect with their fans. This can lead to new friendships through live broadcasts and real-time interactions.
Key features:
- Live Streaming.
- Chat.
- Gifts: You can send virtual gifts to transmitters to show your support.
YouNow
Launched in 2011 and also originally from the United States, YouNow mainly appeals to young people and teenagers. The platform focuses on live streaming, where users can broadcast their own live streams and connect with viewers from all over the world. Although their main focus is entertainment, friendships can be made through live interactions and real-time commentary.
Key features:
- Live Streaming.
- Chat.
- Recognition: YouNow allows you to earn money for your broadcasts.
Warnings about apps to make friends
Social apps can be a fun and exciting way to connect with new people. However, it is important to be aware of some potential risks before using them.
- Cyberbullying: According to a survey made by Pew Research Center between April 14-May 4, 2022, “nearly half of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 (46%) report ever experiencing at least one of six cyberbullying behaviors”. This is something that can happen to both young and old people; so we must be vigilant and report these acts.
- Exposure to inappropriate material: Social applications may expose users to inappropriate material, such as sexually explicit or violent content. Be careful what you see and share on these apps.
- Identity theft: These apps can be a tool for criminals looking to steal users’ identities. Protect your personal information and not share it with anyone you don’t know.
In addition, here are some precautions you can take to protect yourself:
Be cautious with the information you share. Only share personal information with people you trust. Don’t share your address, phone number, or financial information with anyone you don’t know well.
Don’t meet someone in person unless you feel comfortable. If you decide to meet someone in person, do so in a public place and let a friend or family member know where you will be.
Report any inappropriate or harmful behavior. If you experience any kind of inappropriate or harmful behavior, please report the incident to the app moderators and police if necessary.
References
- Bullying and Cyberbullying Offending Among US Youth: The Influence of Six Parenting Dimensions. (2023, August 31st). In ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/358148138_Bullying_and_Cyberbullying_Offending_Among_US_Youth_The_Influence_of_Six_Parenting_Dimensions
- About us. (2023, August 31st). In Yubo. https://www.yubo.live/about-us
- Safety on Hoop. (2023, August 31st). In Hoop. https://hoop.photo/safety/
- About us. (2023, August 31st). In Business Tango. https://business.tango.me/about
- About us. (2023, August 31st). In YouNowhttps://www.younow.com/about