With all the frustration, confusion, and support going towards Twitter this week, a break from Twitter might be just want the doctor ordered. This weekend users have been asking for alternatives to Twitter. In this post we answer that question in a variety of ways. Here's a look at several alternatives to Twitter both online and offline, that will help reduce Twitter's stress levels and temporarily minimize user frustrations.]]>
Online
Here's a brief look into the services that you've recommended to us as alternatives to Twitter:
Pownce
Pownce is a great micro-blogging tool with added functionality that Twitter misses. Extra features include sharing links, files, or events and the added ability to group usersany or all of his/her contacts. You can easily add links to your profiles on other networks, add IM profiles, and also websites. You can even change your Pownce theme. See our in-depth review of Pownce for more details.
Jaiku
Jaiku is another micro-blogging tool and great alternative to Twitter. The functionality of Jaiku is similar to Twitter and Pownce, including the ability to import RSS feeds into your stream. Unlike Pownce, you cannot message files to other users. Another downside is that the service has been invite only since Google acquired it in October 2007.
FriendFeed
FriendFeed is a social aggregator rather than a microblogging tool. However, backed with a strong and growing community, users can post to their FriendFeed lifestream just like on Twitter in addition to importing RSS feeds and various content shared on other social networks. Recently the service has added "rooms", which can function like groups and restrict certain messages or items to a select group of individuals.
Brightkite
Brightkite is a mobile social network that extends Twitter-like functionality to its users. Essentially, users can update the service via their mobile phone and post location statuses along with a note or an image of their choice. Unlike the other alternate services, there's no simple way to reply to another user.
Other Online Alternatives
We've already covered a few other micro-blogging tools in addition to what's been listed here. However, why not take a visit to the platforms that started it all. While instant messaging may be a little old school, we're still using it to connect with others. There's also IRC, forums and messageboards to consider. They may not be the "hottest" alternatives, but these services are what paved the way for services like Twitter to take shape. You can also try doing conference calls via Skype or visiting those AOL and Yahoo chat groups. Meebo anyone?
Offline
If you'd rather not make a switch to another service, try these offline alternatives to Twitter:
- Phone
- Events
- Parks
- Meetings
- Fairs
- Parties/Clubs
The best way to help Twitter deal with their issues without being negative and to also get your social fix is to take a break from the service. When's the last time you called some of your online friends? What about the last time you left the house to socialize? Take a break from the online world and socialize with those that are within your immediate area to physically meet and greet you.
Give Twitter A Break
The biggest problem with most of these alternatives is that they don't quite compare to Twitter's large community following. It has taken me 3 months to build my own network of over 700 followers on Twitter. Not many of us would be willing to put in the time to build our connections somewhere else. So, if you're deciding to head elsewhere, send a Twitter message out to your followers letting them know about the move. Don't forget to note whether or not your move will be permanent. You never know who'll end up following you. You can catch me over on FriendFeed (profile) and Pownce (profile) while I wait for Twitter to come back around. What are your plans?
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