Facebook Launches Snapchat Competitor Slingshot

Slingshot allows users send self-destructing photo or video with text or drawings to another person. The recipient, however, will not be able to see the content unless they send something back to the sender first. For example, if you’ve got a message from a friend, you’ll need to send a message back to him before you can open it.

Slingshot is operable without a Facebook account, instead accounts are tied to a user’s cellphone number. After creating account users can add friends via their phone contact list, SMS invitation or directly from Facebook.

Here’s the key features of Slingshot (Release note from iTunes ):

This is the second app from Facebook Creative Labs, the first one was Paper – a news reader app.

Slinshot is now available on iOS and Android app stores.  iOS 7 or later is required to install the app on iPhones, and Jelly Bean or KitKat is for Androids.

Here’s the complete announcement note:

Today, we’re excited to launch a new app called Slingshot.With Slingshot, we wanted to build something where everybody is a creator and nobody is just a spectator. When everyone participates, there’s less pressure, more creativity and even the little things in life can turn into awesome shared experiences. This is what Slingshot is all about.

Photos and videos that don’t stick around forever allow for sharing that’s more expressive, raw and spontaneous. We can connect the same way we like to live: in the moment. We’ve enjoyed using Snapchat to send each other ephemeral messages and expect there to be a variety of apps that explore this new way of sharing. With Slingshot, we saw an opportunity to create something new and different: a space where you can share everyday moments with lots of people at once.

To get started on Slingshot, shoot a photo or video. It can be what you’re up to, who you’re with or a quick selfie. Add some text and color, then sling it to a bunch of friends. Here’s the deal: friends won’t be able to see your shot until they sling something back to you. They can then reply with a reaction—or simply swipe your shot away.

Using Slingshot has made us feel closer, and we can’t wait for others to try it out. It’s the second app from Facebook Creative Labs and is available today starting in the US on iPhone (iOS7) and Android (Jelly Bean and KitKat). Get it at sling.me/download

Check back here for updates, tips and other cool stuff.

-Will, Joey, Rocky and the rest of the Slingshot Crew