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.

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.