A new social media platform called Connyct has launched with expanded access for college students, positioning itself as a potential alternative amid uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the United States.

The platform requires users to register with a .edu email address, creating institution-specific private networks where students can share content exclusively with peers. This gated approach comes as a federal appeals court recently upheld legislation that could ban TikTok in the U.S. unless its parent company, ByteDance, divests it.

Connyct’s features mirror existing social platforms, offering video creation tools, private messaging, and content feeds. However, the app distinguishes itself with an event discovery section for college activities and community channels organized around shared interests.

“Being a college kid, whether you’re a man or a woman, TikTok and Instagram can be a really scary experience because you have creeps sliding into your DMs,” Matthew Berman, Connyct’s co-founder and CEO, told TechCrunch. “You’re worried about posting things that your parents might see… or what future employers are going to say.”

The platform has secured Warner Music Group as a launch partner, providing users access to major artists’ music for their content. A planned feature will allow users to enhance event pages with songs and dedicated playlists.

Connyct’s leadership team includes industry veterans. Berman previously founded Chunnel.TV, which reached half a million monthly users. Bill Campbell, the chief music officer, advised both Spotify and TikTok during its U.S. expansion. Simmy Kustanowitz, former executive producer of “Impractical Jokers,” serves as chief marketing officer. The company also collaborates with Nikita Bier, founder of social networking app Gas, which Discord acquired.

The platform developed its features in consultation with approximately 50 students from institutions including Louisiana State University, the University of California, the University of Maryland, Purdue University, the University of Texas, and the University of Wisconsin.

To drive adoption, Connyct is introducing an ambassador program allowing students to monetize content and earn rewards through sign-up referrals. Benefits include merchandise, event perks, gift cards, and cash. Berman indicated that earning potential varies based on ambassador roles, which range from conducting campus interviews to managing social posts and events.

The app is currently available only on iOS, with Android and desktop versions in development.

Similar college-focused platforms have shown mixed results. Facebook’s “Campus” initiative shut down in 2022 after two years, while competitor Fizz, launched in 2022, now operates at 240 college campuses and 60 high schools with $41.5 million in total funding.