New SPILL app: What is it and who can join?

SPILL has become the most popular alternative to Twitter. Credit: RaShawn Dixon / Mashable

Twitter is failing to provide reassurance to users who are keen on abandoning the platform due to increased limitations and monetary restrictions.

As a reaction to Elon Musk's gradual delay, various platforms are quickly taking action to regain the migrating users of Twitter. They are introducing authentic replicas of the famous continuous scrolling feed, such as Meta's Threads, which is set to be launched soon.

Many users are pleading for a return to the old ways, but instead of meeting their demands, tech companies are presenting a plethora of options. One of these alternatives is SPILL, a rising platform owned by Black individuals. After Twitter introduced its latest modifications, SPILL witnessed a sudden surge in interest. Since its launch in June, the app has now climbed to the third position among the most popular free apps in the App Store, and it holds the top spot among the free social networking apps.

SPILL aims to cater to a specific group of users, setting itself apart from other platforms like Twitter. Developed by Alphonzo "Phonz" Terrell and DeVaris Brown, both of whom are former employees of Twitter, in partnership with influential Black individuals such as April Reign, equity advisor and initiator of the #OscarsSoWhite movement, this app strives to create a more inclusive and secure environment for individuals who are considered leaders in cultural spheres.

Terrell explained in a special interview with AfroTech that our main idea was to create a platform specifically designed for these influential cultural leaders. Our goal was to address the fundamental challenges faced by both these groups and our community, with the belief that this would enhance the overall experience for everyone involved.

In the realm of Twitter, these influencers who shape the culture are usually members of the Black community, often unacknowledged originators of the internet's shared slang and viral jokes. With Musk's rise to power, these individuals and content creators have been forced to confront their position and security on the platform. As a result, in recent times, many prominent accounts have begun transitioning to SPILL, which is being hailed as a fresh sanctuary for Black Twitter.

Who Can Join SPILL?

At present, SPILL can only be accessed by iOS users. However, the development team is actively working on creating a version for Android users, which will be available in the near future.

Although SPILL does not impose any specific limitations on membership, its primary objective is to establish secure environments for a wide range of individuals. With the proliferation of hate speech and online harassment, particularly targeting marginalized communities, the preservation of protected online spaces has gained increased significance.

How To Join SPILL?

SPILL is currently in a restricted early testing phase, which entails that individuals who are interested must acquire an invitation code from an existing user to set up an account. Due to a sudden surge in demand over the weekend, the platform had to temporarily pause accepting new users.

If you are unable to receive an invitation, SPILL also provides a waitlist for beta testers that is actively ongoing.

In 2020, Chase became a part of Mashable's Social Good team. Her role involved reporting on various online topics such as digital activism, climate justice, accessibility, and media representation. Additionally, she explored how these discussions influence the realms of politics, popular culture, and fandom. On certain occasions, her content showcases a great sense of humor.

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