One thing I noticed about most of the Meta and Xitter clones is that they basically make a 1:1 replica of the popular platforms, including all of the annoying shit used to force you to stay engaged.

I used to use an app called "MyInsta" (before deleting my account altogether) which added a ton of QoL featured to Instagram reels, like the ability to STOP loops (looping is incredibly annoying to me, especially when creators explicitly make it difficult to spot where it begins and ends) and adds a timeline for scrubbing at the bottom so you don't have to watch the entire video again.

I checked it out out of curiosity but Loops has all the same annoying shit. On top of just vertical videos being objectively horrendous to begin with.

But I agree, better this than right-wing owned datahoarding apps like TikTok and Instagram.

The addictice liability is due to manipulation by Tech companies that use algorithms to maximise engagement - i.e. you like something, feed you more so you stay on the app.

That's not an issue with the format or the tech; it's a major issue with a lack of regulation of social media companies.