MIT tool lets users redesign social apps without losing their friends

Social media platforms often force updates on users, such as mandatory AI chatbots or interface changes. Switching to a new platform usually means leaving behind existing social networks. Researchers at MIT have developed a new system called Social.Wiki to address this issue.

Customizing social apps without coding

Social.Wiki allows users to edit any application built within its ecosystem. People without programming experience can use simple prompts with an AI assistant to make changes. For example, a user can alter a messaging app to remove unwanted features or add a voting tool for group decisions. Edits can range from visual styling to changing the underlying algorithms, such as how ride-sharing fares are calculated.

The platform manages backend setup, like databases and server hosting, automatically. User data stays separated from the websites that access it. A built-in security tool called a data guard asks users to review and approve any website requests to access their personal data.

Plural governance gives control back to users

Instead of relying on a central company to dictate how an application works or how content is moderated, Social.Wiki uses a model called plural governance. Each person chooses which edits they want to see on their version of a website. Users can select trusted editors or set rules, such as only displaying changes approved by specific friends.

As a result, two people using the same application might see different versions based on their personal preferences. The underlying social connections and data remain intact regardless of individual site modifications.

Future plans

During testing and hackathons, participants created tools like map-based group chats for housing co-ops and ride-sharing applications with customized pricing calculators. MIT researchers plan to deploy the system to a wider audience and add end-to-end encryption for private messages.