Palestinian app UpScrolled climbs to #1 in Apple’s App Store social rankings

• UpScrolled, founded by Issam Hijazi in 2025, has become the top social networking app on the US App Store, by offering a "user-centric" experience free from hidden algorithms and data sales.
• The app's surge is driven by a massive user exodus from TikTok following its restructuring, as users seek refuge from alleged content censorship and new GPS tracking policies under the platform's new American-majority ownership.

UpScrolled, a burgeoning social networking application, ascended to the top of the Social Networking category on Apple's US App Store.

This ranking is driven by discontent with established competitors and a quest for platforms emphasizing transparency and impartiality.

The app secured the first position overall among top social media apps, surpassing others like TikTok.

Founded in 2025 by Issam Hijazi, a technologist of Palestinian-Jordanian-Australian heritage, UpScrolled operates under Recursive Methods Pty Ltd. and was officially launched on June 18, 2025.

The app positions itself as a user-centric alternative, committed to fostering authentic connections without the influence of hidden algorithms or external agendas.

It is also an alternative to mainstream social networks, particularly after controversies regarding content on Palestine and Gaza on other social media platforms.

Hijazi envisions it as a reimagined social ecosystem that prioritizes control, transparency, and accountability for its users.

The platform's features integrate elements reminiscent of Instagram and X, enabling users to share photos, videos, and text posts, engage in direct messaging, and discover content through trending topics.

Advanced video editing tools and real-time chat functionalities enhance user experience, while a focus on privacy, such as refraining from data sales, distinguishes it from peers.

UpScrolled also supports region-specific content discovery and customizable profiles, promoting genuine expression and community building.

The catalyst for UpScrolled's meteoric rise appears linked to recent developments surrounding TikTok's US ownership restructuring, finalized on January 22, 2026.

Under the new arrangement, ByteDance retains less than 20% stake, with American investors like Oracle, Silver Lake, and MGX each holding 15%.

Allegations of content censorship, including suppression of anti-ICE videos and difficulties accessing protest-related information, have prompted users to migrate.

Concerns over TikTok's updated privacy policy, which permits GPS tracking, further fueled the exodus.

UpScrolled's pledge against shadowbanning and commitment to equitable post visibility resonated with users, positioning it as a viable refuge.