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The Next Big “Cult App” Probably Isn’t Another Social Media Platform

A developer argues that the next breakout "cult app" will not be another social media platform, but rather a gamified tool that integrates into a user's identity, such as a "Duolingo + HackTheBox" hybrid for cybersecurity or an "operating system for ambitious students." The developer identifies a major opportunity to build apps that combine AI, community, and gamification for students, developers, and creators, turning career growth into a social game.

read1 min publishedMay 26, 2026

Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about apps like Cal AI, Strava, Duolingo, Letterboxd, GitHub, etc.

Not because of their features.

But because of something WAY more important:

👉 They have CULT FOLLOWINGS.

People don’t just use these apps.

They identify with them.

And honestly, I think there’s still a HUGE opportunity to build apps/websites like this — especially for students, developers, creators, and internet-native communities.

From what I’ve observed, the apps that explode usually combine: The product becomes part of the user’s personality.

Not just another coding tracker.

I mean:

Basically:

turn career growth into a social game.

I honestly think this market is still wide open.

Students track:

Add:

This could become addictive VERY fast.

Think:

“Duolingo + HackTheBox”

Daily hacking labs.

XP.

Ranks.

Challenges.

Bug bounty progression.

The cybersecurity community is insanely passionate already.

Upload:

Get:

Basically:

an operating system for ambitious students.

Students post:

A mix of:

This space feels VERY underbuilt.

Most successful cult apps are NOT insanely complex.

They win because they:

People stay because of the feeling, not just the feature set.

I think AI + community + gamification is still massively underrated.

Especially in:

I’m seriously exploring ideas in this space:

If you’re: and interested in building internet-first products with strong communities, let’s connect.

I’d love to meet people who think long-term and want to build cool things on the internet.

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