Unscheduled and unscripted: Uses, gratifications, and perceived affordances of the BeReal photo-sharing app

This study examined people’s motives, perceived affordances, and gratifications of using BeReal, a photo-sharing mobile social media app. Through an online survey of 146 English-speaking BeReal users, the study applied the affordance framework and uses and gratifications theory to analyze user experiences and perceptions. Findings revealed the most significant gratifications obtained were expressing the authentic self, entertainment, connecting to others, and presenting the ideal self, and these perceived affordances moderated the relationships between motives and gratifications obtained. Users seeking companionship were more likely to alleviate loneliness through BeReal when they perceived stronger social presence. Those using BeReal to pass time found it more entertaining when the app was seen as less editable and ephemeral. In addition, users aiming to connect with others experienced greater satisfaction when they perceived content as less editable. This study provides insights into how affordances impact how satisfied users are with BeReal’s ability to gratify their needs.