DEV BLOG #7: 2025 Recap

Hey everyone!
As the year comes to an end, it’s the perfect time to pause for a moment and look back.

It’s been over three years since we launched the first version of BokBok back in November 2022. The year 2025 was extremely intense for us, full of challenges and testing different ideas. We didn’t just write code — we spent a lot of time analyzing what actually works and what doesn’t.

This was a period of maturity for the app, and this blog post is dedicated to the latest changes and our plans for 2026.

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🌍 A better start for new users

One of the first things you’ll notice in the new version or at least something new users will notice right away is the redesigned onboarding process.

Until now, we relied on automatic device settings detection to determine the language. We decided to improve this and give you full control right from the start. There’s now a dedicated screen where you choose the interface language as soon as you open the app.

The goal is simple: a clear and pleasant experience from the very first second.

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💎 Quality over quantity

This year, we seriously asked ourselves what makes BokBok special. The real value of the app lies in the ability to present yourself authentically — exactly as you truly are.

Our logic is simple:

App quality = the quality of the profiles inside it

That’s why we decided to raise the bar. We want to maintain a high standard within the community and respond faster and more decisively to inappropriate profiles and content that don’t belong here.

The goal is clear: a safe and comfortable space for everyone looking for real interaction.

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🛠️ Under the hood: new architecture and stability

The most demanding work happened where changes aren’t immediately visible. We made the decision to remove Expo as a dependency that had been technically limiting us.

The main reasons were speed and flexibility. While using Expo, we often had to wait for their support for new updates. Now, as soon as a fix lands in React Native itself, we can apply it immediately.

Bonus effects:

• smaller bundle size

• faster responses to bugs

• full technical control

The biggest win is independence.

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🚀 Plans for 2026

Throughout 2025, we tested various ways of reaching new users, including paid digital ads. We did see results, but we weren’t fully satisfied.

That’s why we’re continuing to experiment in 2026.

• We’re staying active on Instagram and social media

• Shifting part of the focus to real-world marketing

• Testing posters, stickers, and in-person events

We want to see how the community works outside the screen as well.

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Thank you for being with us on this journey ❤️
Update the app to the latest version, let us know your feedback, and happy New Year! 🎇🎆

See you in 2026!