The Welsh social network Tŵt is set to introduce its new mobile app later this month.
The Cardiff event on 28 February represents a significant milestone for the long-standing, community-owned platform. Having built a strong early user base over eight years, Tŵt is now focusing on delivering a seamless and user-friendly experience designed for wider public adoption.
The launch concludes the Pethau Bychain campaign, a six-week initiative that has engaged thousands in discussions around a more inclusive and accessible social web. Guests will be offered an advance demonstration before the app opens to the public on Dydd Gŵyl Dewi.
Jaz-Michael King, Tŵt Cymru’s founder and Director said: “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our mobile app as the next step in our journey.
“This launch comes at a period of unprecedented volatility for mainstream social media. With platforms like X (formerly Twitter) facing ongoing instability, uncertainty surrounding the new ownership of TikTok, and the increasing commercialisation of user data, the need for a stable, community-owned alternative has never been more urgent.
“Tŵt offers a digital lifeboat for Wales and the Welsh, at home and abroad—a space that cannot be bought, sold, or broken by the whims of a single billionaire.”
The app has been developed in partnership with the Newsmast Foundation, which provided the technical backbone through its Apps for Change programme. The collaboration is intended to strengthen independent media and create a space where Welsh journalism and community voices can flourish without commercial algorithmic influence.
Michael Foster, Co-Founder of the Newsmast Foundation and ex-director of Reuters New Media said: “Journalism needs a home that isn’t owned by a billionaire or governed by an opaque algorithm. This is about more than just social media; it’s about creating the self-governed infrastructure necessary for communities, supported by independent news, to survive and thrive. We’re proud to be working with Tŵt to showcase our technology and help Welsh people take another step towards digital sovereignty.”
Momentum behind the project reflects wider calls for a more independent digital infrastructure in Wales.
Dr David Clubb, Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission for Wales, notes that community-owned digital spaces like Tŵt are essential for a sovereign, connected, and sustainable Wales. He said: “The adoption of communication tools by the public sector in Wales has seen us become dependent on American-owned global media giants, where surveillance has become baked into our ability to receive public information. This is the antithesis of future generations’ thinking.
“Tŵt offers a completely different direction of radical open-ness and community that is both exhilarating, and beautifully aligned with Wales’ future generations obligations.”
Jaz-Michael King added: “This isn’t just about launching an app; it’s about gathering the people who will call this space home.
“We will convene in the heart of our national capital to celebrate culture, community, and digital sovereignty – proving that Wales can lead the way in creating social spaces that prioritise people over profit.”
As part of the Fediverse, Tŵt enables users to connect across a decentralised global network used by millions. The St David’s Day release underscores its ambition to serve Welsh communities while remaining interoperable with international platforms.
More details can be found at croeso.toot.wales and www.newsmastfoundation.org.