Airbuds is a social music app that appeals to Gen Z and younger audiences by enabling real-time sharing and reactions to music streams.

Supporting multiple streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Soundcloud, Airbuds offers features such as emoji reactions, stickers, selfies, chat, and a private 'ghost mode' for listening discreetly.

Having achieved over 15 million downloads and 5 million monthly active users, the app recently secured $5 million in funding from Seven Seven Six, founded by Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, fueling its growth.

With backing from notable investors, Airbuds plans to expand by adding more streaming services, fostering artist-to-fan connections, and exploring a subscription model to enhance user engagement.

Founded by Gilles Poupardin and Gawen Arab, who bring extensive experience in consumer products and social apps, the team designed Airbuds for effortless sharing through iOS widgets and social features.

The app employs a gated growth strategy that requires invites for certain features, creating a close-knit community and encouraging authentic engagement.

Airbuds offers personalized features like weekly music recaps, taste matching with friends, and experimental tools such as school-based music leaderboards to deepen user interaction.

Focusing on self-expression and social connection, users can customize profiles with artists, songs, and personal content, leading to 30% of users engaging beyond basic streaming.

Unlike Apple and Spotify, which have struggled to develop successful social music experiences, Airbuds emphasizes community-driven features and user-friendly design to stand out.