Decentralized Social Media: Social Networks in the Web3 Era

Decentralized Social Media: Social Networks in the Web3 Era

Jayden7/1/2025

1. What is Decentralized Social Media (DSM)?

 

DSM platforms are social media networks built on decentralized infrastructures, utilizing blockchain or peer-to-peer networks to replace or enhance traditional platforms like Facebook or X. DSM focuses on granting users control over their data and reducing reliance on centralized organizations.

 

2. Distinguishing DSM from DeSoc

 

While both DSM and DeSoc aim for decentralization, they differ in focus:

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  • DSM: Centers on media content, allowing users to create and monetize content through tools like NFTs, staking, or token rewards.

  • DeSoc: Concentrates on social graphs, ensuring users have full control over their online relationships and connections.

  • Projects like Lens Protocol integrate both aspects, enabling users to monetize content while maintaining cross-application social relationships.

 

3. Notable DSM Projects

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  • Mirror.xyz: A platform for content creators, especially bloggers, allowing users to mint articles as NFTs and crowdfund through tokenized content.

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  • Lens Protocol: A decentralized social networking protocol that lets users own and control their personal data and social connections, supporting content monetization and cross-application social relationships within the Polygon ecosystem.