A/SIDE Launches Private Photo Sharing and Encrypted Messaging Platform
A privacy-focused social network prioritizing user control, independent infrastructure, and transparent open-source code.
1Independent Infrastructure Strategy
A/SIDE operates its core servers, database, and media storage on an independent provider rather than major platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure. This infrastructure choice reflects a commitment to operational autonomy. While some supporting services utilize external providers, the company maintains transparency regarding these dependencies through its detailed privacy policy documentation.
2Transparent Open-Source Architecture
The platform distinguishes itself by making both its application and server-side code publicly accessible for audit. Users can inspect the feed algorithms, encryption mechanisms for chats, and data handling procedures. This transparency allows for verification of security claims, ensuring that the platform operates exactly as described without hidden data processing or tracking.
3Tiered Access and Pricing
The service offers a free tier with a 30-day history window for feed and message content. Paid Pro plans include a $20 annual individual subscription and a $60 annual family plan for up to six accounts. These paid tiers unlock full archive access, while the free tier restricts visibility without automatically deleting older data.
4Granular Audience Control
Users manage their social circles through private lists, which filter feed content and determine post visibility. Audience selection occurs at the time of publication, meaning subsequent changes to list memberships do not retroactively alter the permissions of previously shared posts. These list names remain entirely private to the user, ensuring personal organizational structures stay hidden.
5Encryption and Privacy Standards
New direct and group conversations utilize end-to-end encryption to protect user communications. However, feed posts are stored by A/SIDE and are not end-to-end encrypted. Legacy conversations created before the implementation of these standards remain unencrypted. The company explicitly states it does not use user content for training AI models or licensing.
6Version 1.6 Feature Updates
The latest 1.6 update introduces one-minute voice captions for photo posts, allowing users to record and preview audio before sharing. On iPhone, the app supports on-device speech recognition for dictating captions and messages, ensuring audio data never leaves the device. These features are available across both iOS and Android platforms for all users.
7Connection and Discovery Model
A/SIDE eliminates public profiles and user directories to maintain a closed, intimate environment. Connections require mutual acceptance, initiated via personal invite links or contact matching. This design prevents unsolicited interactions and ensures that feed posts are only visible to approved connections, reinforcing the platform's focus on private, intentional social networking.
8Platform Market Positioning
By rejecting ad-supported models and public discovery, A/SIDE positions itself as an alternative to mainstream social media. The reliance on annual subscriptions rather than data monetization aligns the company's incentives with user privacy. This approach targets users seeking a controlled, chronological feed experience free from algorithmic manipulation and external data harvesting practices.