BeFake, a novel social networking application, has secured $3 million in seed funding to pioneer an AI-enhanced social network. The app, which borrows ideas from the popular Gen Z app BeReal, incorporates artificial intelligence technology. The name “BeFake” is a clear nod to BeReal’s genuine photo sharing among friends but implies a different approach. Instead of showcasing users’ current activities, BeFake allows users to snap photos with both front and back cameras, then customize their pictures using AI technology, either through in-app presets or custom prompts.
Alias Technologies, an applied AI company specializing in generative media and multi-modal AI systems for social media applications, developed BeFake. Founded in 2021 by Kristen Garcia Dumont and Tracy Lane, former executives of the gaming giant Machine Zone, which was acquired by AppLovin in 2020, Alias Technologies aims to reimagine the real-time social networking concept from BeReal, using AI to transform users’ photos into AI-enhanced visuals that express their creative authenticity.
Dumont and Lane draw parallels between the gaming and social networking industries, emphasizing the role of AI in monetization and user engagement. They observed that effective algorithms in gaming led to better player retention and connections among users. This observation inspired the creation of BeFake, where users can establish digital identities and connect with others based on shared interests and creative expressions rather than real-world identities.
BeFake operates similarly to other front-back camera apps like BeReal and Frontback. Users capture photos with both cameras and then apply AI enhancements through preset or custom prompts, including style and location prompts. The app employs Stable Diffusion with a custom denoising loop to process various types of photos, such as candids and zoomed-in shots.
Notably, BeFake does not require users to upload numerous selfies to get started, and the AI-powered enhancements typically take less than 30 seconds to apply, making it user-friendly and efficient. Users spend an average of at least 10 minutes per session crafting their AI creations. These augmented photos can be shared with friends, posted on the discovery feed to build a following, or shared on other social networks.
The name “BeFake” was chosen to challenge the prevalent trend of curated and idealized self-representation on social media. The founders believe that even platforms like BeReal, which emphasize authenticity, have seen users curating their “real” moments, leading to inauthenticity. BeFake, on the other hand, embraces creative expression without the pressure to conform to authenticity ideals.
While specific download and user adoption metrics are not disclosed, BeFake has reported substantial week-over-week growth since its recent launch on the App Store and Google Play. The app generates revenue through subscriptions, allowing users to pay for additional compute time to create AI images beyond the free limit. Subscription options include $2.99 per week, $9.99 per month, or $99.99 per year.
Looking ahead, BeFake’s founders believe their gaming industry experience will help them adapt to evolving user preferences and maintain relevance. They emphasize the importance of building a strong community and being responsive to user feedback, noting that the moat for AI apps lies in fostering a thriving user base.
BeFake is supported by $3 million in seed funding, with Khosla Ventures leading the investment round. Other notable investors include Next Coast Ventures, Maveron Ventures, Peter Thiel, Joe Lonsdale, and WS Investments. The funding round was completed in April 2022.
