Back when social media was just taking off, sharing your thoughts about the newest “Grey’s Anatomy” episode on Myspace was the highlight of a Thursday night. Stumbling upon a Facebook group like “Team Jacob Forever” felt like striking gold.
Today, it can feel nearly impossible to discover a community that fits your unique interests, but a fresh social platform called Phictly is set to change that.
Phictly, which is available for both iOS and Android, enables people to create clubs dedicated to their favorite movies, TV series, or books. These clubs form tight-knit spaces where members can freely chat about their passions without fear of criticism.
For example, fans can join fantasy book clubs to chat about Violet and Xaden from Rebecca Yarros’ “The Fourth Wing,” or share memories from the early seasons of “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Image Credits:Phictly
Nyleena Aiken developed the app after she and her sisters started a book club but struggled to agree on titles that interested everyone. She realized that many others probably faced the same issue and could use an app that lets people form groups around a single book or show at a time.
“When you look at other platforms, you’ll find lots of big groups but not much real interaction,” Aiken told TechCrunch. “Phictly keeps conversations on track and fits into people’s busy routines, making it easy to join in when it works for them.”
Phictly’s main features include limiting each club to 20 members to encourage close conversations. Users can also set the club’s pace based on how quickly they read or watch. Those who prefer to finish quickly can join or start clubs that last just a day or two, while others can opt for groups that run up to a month.
Another standout function lets users share spoilers, but keeps them hidden until others are ready to see them. Spoilers appear blurred at first, so everyone can choose when to reveal them and avoid accidental plot reveals. There’s also a “Talk Points” tool, which allows members to schedule check-ins to discuss certain chapters or episodes, ensuring everyone can participate.
Much like Goodreads, Phictly lets users keep track of what they’re reading or watching, log their progress, and set personal goals for books or shows.
Upcoming features will include a matching tool that connects users with similar tastes in genres, books, or TV series. Eventually, the app will also support clubs for video game fans.
Phictly can be downloaded for free, but a paid subscription with extra perks—like the option to make your profile private—may be introduced soon.
