(Denver, CO / October 14, 2026) – Joystiq (Joystiq.app) made its early public debut at Atlanta Pride on Sunday, October 11, giving attendees a hands-on look at the independent hookup, chat and dating app rooted in the LGBTQ community ahead of its upcoming beta.

Despite weather challenges, the Joystiq booth drew steady traffic and strong feedback from attendees who shared many of the same frustrations that inspired founder Ted Buras to build the platform. Conversations repeatedly returned to ad-heavy user experiences, constant upsells and growing consolidation across existing apps, while attendees responded positively to Joystiq’s independent, community-focused approach.

The app’s design earned particular praise, along with its group chat and local events features, which let users find happenings nearby, purchase tickets and eventually host private events of their own. Buras also heard encouragement from people outside the app’s core audience who said they saw value in having an independent alternative that puts community needs closer to the center of the business.

“The response was better than I expected, especially considering the weather,” Buras said. “What stood out was how many people immediately understood why I’m building Joystiq because they’re experiencing the same frustrations I am. Hearing people get excited about the design, group chat and events features made it clear that there’s room for something different.”

Joystiq is now preparing to submit its beta build for approval, after which public testers can begin trying the app ahead of its official launch.

To follow Joystiq’s progress and sign up for updates, visit Joystiq.app.

Joystiq is a community-first, location-based hookup, chat and dating app founded by Ted Buras and developed by Daddy Media, LLC. Designed as an independent alternative to increasingly corporate platforms, Joystiq combines location-based discovery, private messaging, group chat, photos and private albums with local event listings, ticketing and tools for hosting private events.

The platform is built around a user-first approach, with a mission to create a sustainable business that also supports LGBTQ organizations, beginning with The Colorful Colfax Project and The Gays With Kids Academy. Learn more at Joystiq.app.