Microwave: A Native iOS Client for AT Protocol Video

A new contender has entered the social media landscape, aiming to bring the popular short-form video experience to the open web. The application, named Microwave, is a native iOS app designed to function similarly to TikTok. However, its architecture sets it apart from the industry giants.

Instead of relying on a proprietary backend, Microwave operates as a pure client on the AT Protocol. This open social framework powers Bluesky, allowing developers to build applications that interact directly with the network. By stripping away the custom server infrastructure, the app poses a critical question: Can a fluid, engaging video platform exist entirely on an open protocol?

The core innovation of Microwave lies in its client-only design. Traditional social media apps rely on complex, centralized servers to store data, manage user accounts, and serve content. Microwave bypasses this entirely. It reads from and publishes to existing ATproto infrastructure, meaning it leverages the decentralized network already established by Bluesky.

This approach allows the app to remain lightweight and focused purely on the user experience. The developer describes it as a thin client, highlighting a commitment to interoperability. By adhering strictly to the protocol, the app demonstrates how specific verticals—like short-form video—can be layered onto a general-purpose social graph without requiring a new, isolated ecosystem.

The technical implications are significant. By building on ATproto, Microwave inherits the protocol's underlying features, including identity management and data portability. This creates a seamless experience for users who may already exist within the broader Bluesky network.

Building a video-heavy application without a dedicated backend presents distinct hurdles. The developer has outlined several areas where client-only tradeoffs become apparent, specifically regarding ranking, discovery, and moderation. In a centralized model, algorithms aggressively curate content to maximize engagement; replicating this on a decentralized network requires different strategies.

Discovery is a primary focus of the project. Without a central server to analyze user behavior at scale, Microwave must find efficient ways to surface relevant content. The developer is soliciting feedback on whether the current user experience (UX) makes sense on top of ATproto. This includes addressing protocol limitations that may not be immediately obvious when building a standard text-based social client.

Architectural red flags are also a concern. The developer is openly asking for scrutiny regarding the app's structure. This transparent approach underscores the experimental nature of the project, which serves as a proof-of-concept for the capabilities of the AT Protocol.

"The goal was to explore whether a TikTok-like experience can exist as a thin client over an open social protocol, rather than a vertically integrated platform."

The project was recently shared with the tech community to gauge interest and gather technical insights. The developer is specifically looking for feedback on four key areas. These questions frame the ongoing development of Microwave and the broader potential of the AT Protocol.

• Whether this kind of UX makes sense on top of ATproto
• Client-only tradeoffs (ranking, discovery, moderation)
• Protocol limitations that may have been missed
• Any architectural red flags

This collaborative development style is common in early-stage software, particularly when pushing the boundaries of existing technology. By opening the floor to critique, the developer hopes to refine the app and identify the strengths and weaknesses of building complex applications on open protocols.

For those interested in testing the application, Microwave is currently available for download. The developer has released the app via Apple's TestFlight program. This allows for public beta testing, enabling users to try the software before a potential full release on the App Store.

Access to the beta provides a hands-on look at how a decentralized video feed operates. It offers a glimpse into a future where social media experiences are not locked into single platforms but are instead built on interoperable, open standards that users control.

Microwave represents a significant experiment in the evolution of social media. By attempting to port a highly demanding format—short-form video—to a decentralized protocol, it tests the limits of what open networks can achieve. If successful, it could pave the way for a new generation of specialized clients that prioritize user choice and interoperability over platform lock-in.

The project serves as a proof-of-concept that the AT Protocol is versatile enough to support diverse media types beyond text and images. As the beta progresses and community feedback is integrated, Microwave will likely serve as a blueprint for future developers looking to build on open social infrastructure.