Daze: The New Messaging Service for the TikTok Generation

A new instant messenger is about to hit our smartphones: Daze! With its focus on creativity, interactivity, and AI-powered features, it's already generating buzz among Gen Z.

WhatsApp, iMessage, Snapchat, Messenger—there are plenty of messaging services, each with its own strengths. But breaking into this crowded space is tough. However, one new app, Daze, has managed to stand out before its official launch by directly targeting the highly sought-after Gen Z audience.

Daze is an instant messaging service that quickly gained attention through a social media-focused marketing strategy. The new platform is gearing up for its launch, leveraging TikTok and Instagram with promotional videos that have racked up millions of views.

And the buzz is real! Though Daze won't officially launch until November 4, it already has 156,000 people on its waiting list. Currently, the app is in beta, with about 1,400 users testing it by invitation only. So, what's behind its early success?

Daze: Creative Messaging for Gen Z

Daze stands out from traditional messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and iMessage with its focus on creativity. No more plain blue and green chat bubbles. Daze lets users send multi-colored messages that float across the screen. Messages can be personalized with photos, various fonts, graphics, stickers, GIFs, drawings, custom backgrounds, and more—thanks to AI-powered features built right into the app.

"Our goal with Daze has been to make a feature complete messenger that is competitive with iMessage, WhatsApp, etc., while still having a suite of really fun and creative features," said Willem Simons, the American entrepreneur who founded the app, in an interview with TechCrunch. "You can quickly type a message and hit send, or drag the message anywhere in the chat. It's easy to use but also free and unconstrained."

Will Daze's Success Last?

While Daze is already making waves, it's wise to remain cautious. Plenty of apps generate early hype only to fade away. Still, the popularity of its social media presence suggests that its concept is resonating with Gen Z. During its testing phase, more than 50% of users stuck around after sixty days—an impressive retention rate. Most testers were between 13 and 22 years old, the app's primary target demographic.

The long-term success of Daze will depend on its ability to continue innovating and adding new features that keep users engaged. Only time will tell if it can maintain its momentum, but for now, Daze looks poised to be the next big thing in messaging for the TikTok generation.