European Commission backs open‑source social network for youth as German startup launches alternative platform

The European Commission announced a new open‑source initiative to develop a social network aimed at young people. The programme will fund the creation of at least one prototype built on decentralized protocols such as ActivityPub or the AT Protocol, and will involve youth from a minimum of eight EU member states in the design process, emphasizing privacy, transparency, digital health and responsible AI use.

In parallel, German startup PINUBBLE launched its own social‑media service from Rostock. The platform replaces algorithmic feeds with user‑managed “Bubbles”, digital communities where members decide who can see and share content. It aims to give users greater control over their interactions and to keep discussions within relevant groups, blending private and public spaces.