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A Social Network Tailored for Generation Z
Launched in 2015 by three young French entrepreneurs, Sacha Lazimi, Jérémie Aouate, and Arthur Patora, Yubo was initially designed as a social network for making friends. Unlike giants like Instagram or TikTok, the app focuses on “social discovery,” which means it enables users to forge new friendships through instant messaging and live video streams. This concept has particularly resonated with younger audiences, with 80% of its users aged between 18 and 24 years old.
The interface is straightforward: a swipe system helps users discover similar profiles, chat groups, and live streams where they can interact with others in real-time. There are no likes or comments; the goal is purely to engage directly with others without the pressure to amass followers.
Surging Popularity
Since its inception, Yubo has seen remarkable growth. By 2024, the app boasted 80 million registered users across 140 countries, with significant user bases in the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. Its business model is based on a freemium system, offering in-app purchases for premium features. As a result, in 2024, Yubo generated revenue of 60 million euros, marking an 80% increase from the previous year.
The company plans to continue expanding in Europe, focusing on countries like Germany and Poland, while also innovating its economic model. The average spend of paying users is around 30 euros per month, a testament to the app’s appeal among its audience.
An App Under Scrutiny
However, Yubo has not been without its critics. Dubbed by some as the “Tinder for teens,” the platform has faced scrutiny over safety issues, particularly concerning harassment and inappropriate interactions between minors and adults.
In response to these concerns, the company has implemented stricter controls. An age verification system using facial recognition technology has been introduced to prevent adults from accessing areas intended for minors. Human moderators and algorithms now monitor conversations to identify risky behavior. A strict separation between minor and adult users has also been enforced to reduce the potential for abuse.
Despite these measures, criticisms continue. Some cybersecurity experts believe the safeguards are still insufficient, and many parents are concerned about the lack of oversight over interactions among youths.
A Bright Future Ahead Despite Challenges
Despite significant controversies, Yubo continues to attract users and pique the interest of investors. In 2020, the company raised 40 million euros to bolster its security measures and accelerate its international expansion. This further underscores the app’s significant potential. The key question now is whether Yubo can fully reassure users about the safety of its platform.