Nikita Bier, renowned for his innovative apps like tbh and Gas, has launched a fresh application named Explode. This app integrates directly into Apple's Messages service, allowing users to send self-destructing messages and images. Only the sender needs to have the app installed for it to work. While initially free, premium features can be unlocked through a subscription service called Explode+. In addition, Bier has shared some controversial insights about his past dealings with Snapchat, revealing how they affected his previous ventures.

The Mechanics of Explode: A Closer Look

Explode operates as an extension of Apple’s Messages app, enabling users to send ephemeral content that vanishes after viewing. Once received, recipients can view the message or image only once before it disappears forever. To enhance security, the app prevents screenshots, ensuring the temporary nature of the communication. For those who wish to access additional functionalities, Explode offers a paid tier called Explode+ at $39.99 annually or $7.99 monthly. These premium features include alerts when someone tries to take a screenshot, the ability to replay previously sent photos, and locking photo views after sending.

Bier’s creation is designed to provide a seamless experience within iMessage, requiring only the sender to have the app installed. This unique approach simplifies the process for both parties involved in the conversation. Users benefit from the app’s straightforward interface and robust security measures, making it ideal for private communications. The premium version adds even more layers of control and customization, catering to users who demand enhanced privacy and functionality. Explode is currently available in several countries, including the U.S., Canada, the UK, Australia, France, Germany, and Italy, expanding its reach beyond borders.

Beyond the App: Insights into Past Struggles

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Bier shed light on his contentious history with Snapchat. He recounted a meeting with Snapchat’s CEO where discussions centered around acquiring his previous company, Gas. Shortly after this meeting, during the Thanksgiving holiday, Gas was abruptly removed from SnapKit, halting its growth. According to Bier, this decision was based on allegations that Gas violated Snapchat’s policies by using URL attachments for friend recommendations without explicit consent. However, Bier maintains that Gas operated independently and did not rely on Snapchat’s social graph.

This incident significantly impacted Gas’s user base, as 23% of Snapchat’s U.S. users had engaged with Gas stories. Sharing a Gas poll via Snapchat was a prominent feature, and the sudden removal disrupted the app’s functionality for seven days. Despite these challenges, Discord eventually acquired Gas in January 2023, shutting it down in November of the same year. Bier’s reflections highlight the competitive dynamics within the tech industry and the potential repercussions of corporate decisions on smaller startups. His latest venture, Explode, seems to embody a spirit of resilience and innovation, offering users a reliable alternative for secure, temporary messaging.