Position Paper 3 - Trending Topics

 Trending Topics: BeReal

When I think of "Trending Topics," my mind immediately goes to Twitter. I am usually reminded of this due to daily checking the "Trending" tab on the platform. Oxford Languages defines trending as "currently popular or widely discussed online, especially on social media websites." Not many people are unfamiliar with the term "trending," especially in my age demographic. From a public relations perspective, trending topics can be essential to a marketing campaign and helpful when promoting a company or individual. Sometimes, trending topics can boost a company's reputation, but other times they can do just the opposite. 

Like everyone my age, I am always on the lookout for new social media trends and staying with what is popular. Although there is plenty to discuss in the realm of TikTok trends, I came across something that I believe is worthy of discussion itself. Last week, I came across a new social media app that has become popular over the previous month. The app is called BeReal, and it is being described as a more "authentic Instagram." 

The app has a straightforward goal: "discover who your friends really are in their daily life." Every day at a different time, each BeReal user receives a notification simultaneously. The message tells users they only have two minutes to post on the app before the timer runs out. Your front and rear-facing cameras on your cellphone will take a photo at once when you post. Once the image is captured, it is posted unfiltered and shows your friends exactly what you were doing at that moment. You can only see what your friends posted if you also posted a BeReal; however, users still have the opportunity to post late to see what their friends were doing at the time of the notification. 



BeReal was founded in 2020 by French Entrepreneur Alexis Barreyat. BeReal is not about being an influencer. According to BeReal's description on the App Store, "BeReal won't make you famous; if you want to become an influencer, you can stay on TikTok and Instagram." Currently, the App is a hit with college students in the United States; however, it is also trendy in France and the United Kingdom. 

I have only had the app for two days, and so far, the only friend I have on there is my sister Maggie. Having my sister as my only friend doesn't say much because I can see what she is up to most of the time anyway. Although I have not had time to get acquainted with the app long enough to have an opinion, the reviews of the networking app are excellent. BeReal has a 4.9-star rating on the App store with various considerations. 



Many say that the execution of the app is done poorly, but others are raving about the app. Many people have pointed out that one issue is the ability to see users' locations while using the app. Although this feature can be turned off in settings, many users find it "suspect" that you can see where others are on a map when they post. This is comparable to the "Snap Map" option on Snapchat; many people complained about the feature at first. I believe it is up to the individual's opinion, and the feature can always be turned off. Parents should monitor when apps ask for permission to know their kids' location for younger audiences. 

There have also been many reviews made about BeReal online. BeReal has been called "Gen Z's new favorite social media app." Hannah Towey from Insider has claimed that she "likes it more than Instagram."  According to Towey:
 "I tried out BeReal for three weeks to figure out why the social media newbie has been quietly creeping up the app store ranks. After getting through an awkward adjustment period, it's become my new favorite way to keep up with friends."
Towey also says that she does not like aspects of the app. She claims she often misses the two-minute window to post, but many of her friends don't really mind when you post late. She also says that she can see why college students love the app:
 "They have much more free time, are constantly with friends, and are able to avoid most depressing reminders of the daily grind in their feed."
Of course, when it comes to trending topics, you cannot escape Twitter. Many reviews on Twitter regarding BeReal are positive. 

From a public relations perspective, I think it will be possible to do some marketing through relatability on BeReal; however, because the app is pure "anti-filter" and "pro-authenticity," there is no way to do promotions on the app as of now. I have enjoyed the app and look forward to adding more friends. I believe this app will grow into something bigger, and it is nice to see a platform where people are free from the stresses and insecurities that Instagram or TikTok can create. 

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