BeFake, a groundbreaking social networking app that merges elements from the widely popular Gen Z platform BeReal with advanced AI technology, has successfully secured $3 million in seed funding to develop its AI-enhanced social network. The app’s name humorously contrasts with the authenticity emphasized by BeReal, as it allows users to snap photos with both the front and back cameras and further enhance these images with AI features, using either predefined presets or personalized prompts.
Developed by Alias Technologies, an applied AI firm specializing in generative media and multi-modal AI systems, BeFake aims to reshape social interaction online.
Founded in 2021 by Kristen Garcia Dumont and Tracy Lane, both former executives at gaming giant Machine Zone (acquired by AppLovin in 2020), Alias Technologies brings a wealth of experience to the table. Dumont served as CEO, overseeing the successful development and launch of profitable mobile games like World War Rising and Final Fantasy XV: A New Empire, which collectively grossed over $1 billion. Lane's role as COO focused on community management, compliance, and strategizing platform partnerships.
With BeFake, the founders seek to put a creative spin on BeReal’s real-time posting feature by integrating Alias’ innovative AI technology. This approach allows users to express their creativity rather than solely their authenticity. “We leveraged AI for monetization,” Dumont explains. “We aimed to understand the best offers and timing for players, whether for sales or community matchmaking.” This insight demonstrated the potential for retaining users and fostering connections among individuals who originally had no prior links.
The concept of allowing users to build digital identities and connections without revealing their real-world selves inspired the creation of BeFake. Dumont notes, “Seeing the genuine connections formed through accurate algorithmic matchmaking was truly inspirational.”
Users of BeFake can capture front and back photos, similar to other apps like BeReal or its predecessor, Frontback. They can then choose AI-generated prompts or create their own to transform these images into unique augmented visuals, which can include anything from fantasy settings to outlandish scenarios.
This app relies on Stable Diffusion with an innovative denoising loop, ensuring compatibility with all types of photos, including candids and group shots. Unlike some AI platforms that require numerous selfies upfront, BeFake processes AI alterations in under 30 seconds, typically even faster. Users, however, spend an average of 10 minutes per session customizing their creations.
Once designed, photos can be shared with friends or featured in the discovery feed, allowing creators to build a following. The ability to switch between the original and AI-augmented images offers a playful twist, and the founders believe this feature will foster a more diverse and intriguing feed compared to BeReal.
When questioned about the name "BeFake," a title that suggests a parody of BeReal, Dumont clarified that it symbolizes a rejection of contemporary social media norms, where many feel pressured to present an idealized version of themselves. She argues that even BeReal can be curated, stating, “It’s telling users to present their lives as perfect. That’s not truly authentic.”
Launched on the App Store and Google Play, BeFake has been experiencing remarkable initial growth, although the company currently refrains from sharing specific download metrics.
The app operates on a subscription model, allowing users to pay for computational resources to generate AI images beyond the designated usage times. Subscriptions are priced at $2.99 per week, $9.99 per month, or $99.99 per year, with daily notifications offering users a free 20-minute window for creating AI-augmented images.
Looking ahead, the founders believe their gaming background equips them to adapt rapidly to user preferences, ensuring long-term engagement. “We’ve designed the app for swift updates akin to gaming,” Dumont asserts. “While proprietary technology is important, our true competitive advantage lies in building a dynamic community and responding effectively to user needs.”
The 12-member, remote team is committed to refining its algorithms based on user preferences, ensuring a personalized experience. The recent funding round, led by Khosla Ventures and supported by notable investors such as Next Coast Ventures, Maveron Ventures, Peter Thiel, Joe Lonsdale, and WS Investments, has provided BeFake with a solid foundation for its ambitious goals.
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