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Hyves returns as Dutch social network after 13-year hiatus
The Dutch social networking platform Hyves has officially relaunched after a thirteen-year absence. Originally founded in 2004, the platform was once the largest social network in the Netherlands before being overtaken by international competitors like Facebook.
Owned by Mediahuis, the newly rebuilt platform aims to differentiate itself from modern giants like TikTok and Instagram by intentionally avoiding addictive algorithms and the ‘endless scroll.’ Instead, the service focuses on personal connections, featuring a chronological feed and nostalgic elements such as ‘krabbels’ (messages), glitter graphics, and the iconic dancing banana GIF.
Developed in partnership with technology firm Apadmi, the new Hyves utilizes a European technical architecture. Mediahuis has stated that the platform is hosted within Europe and does not share user data with third parties. The relaunch seeks to appeal to both nostalgic millennials and younger users looking for a more tranquil, less intrusive social media experience.
Entities
Apadmi · Hyves · Mediahuis · Netherlands · Newcom · Telegraaf Media Groep
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The service is now available exclusively via a smartphone app. www.manners.nl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Mediahuis is the current owner of the brand. www.spreekbuis.nl
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Nearly 60 percent of nearly 2,000 surveyed Dutch people expressed interest in trying the returned platform.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Hyves was originally launched in 2004. www.manners.nl
- [● 3 SOURCES] Hyves relaunched as a social media platform on September 22. www.manners.nl · www.spreekbuis.nl
- [● 2 SOURCES] The new platform aims to operate without addictive algorithms or endless scrolling. www.manners.nl
- [● 2 SOURCES] The platform focuses on personal connections with people users know personally. www.manners.nl
- [● 2 SOURCES] The original social network was shut down in late 2013. www.spreekbuis.nl