A lot of social networks have been popping up lately, mostly because of the desire to find alternatives to existing platforms. While most new platforms tend to mimic current ones, seven39 has a unique feature: this 90s-style social network is only available for 3 hours a day.
seven39 advertises itself as a platform that doesn’t promise endless scrolling or FOMO. The site claims that social media is better when everyone is online together and promises three hours of enjoyment while the social network is open. It’s a concept that contrasts sharply with the always-on nature of most modern platforms.
According to The Verge, the site features a single timeline and resembles a Twitter clone. Users can create posts of up to 200 characters and interact by liking or replying to other users. They also have the option to upload images. However, certain features that have become common elsewhere—such as reposts or quotes—are currently not supported.
A Return to Pre-Smartphone Simplicity
Most of the content on the platform appears to be fairly typical: self-introductions, memes, and pet photos. But it’s the restricted access window and retro aesthetic that make it stand out. Seven39 creator Mark Lyons explains that the network was designed with a nostalgic, retro feel in mind. His aim was to explore how people communicated online before the smartphone era changed everything.
The social network currently has around 3,000 users, which is not a large number by today’s standards. However, it’s still a community with its own rhythm. One of the limiting factors, of course, is the time-based access. Not everyone can join during the three-hour window, especially considering global time differences, notes NIX Solutions.
Still, the concept of a digital space that encourages short, focused interactions is gaining attention. Whether seven39 continues to grow or remains a niche corner of the internet, we’ll keep you updated as more integrations become available or changes are announced.