We build social software people actually use.

For anyone whose next friend is a stranger right now. One small team in Stockholm, one app: HeyU.

The studio

Great social software is built by people who sweat the details. Most social apps compete for time on screen. We build the opposite: HeyU helps people meet, then gets out of the way.

Marcus Guthner Founder, Shadow Particle
What we believe

Technology should bring people together, not pull them apart.

What we do
/01

Native iOS apps

Fast, modern SwiftUI that feels effortless and scales past a thousand users.

/02

Backend & infrastructure

Cloud functions, real-time data and server-side safety behind every screen.

/03

Design & brand

Interface, identity and copy in one consistent voice.

Our app

HeyU.

Find new friends, community and support. Scroll a feed tuned to your interests, connect on a mutual like, and start a private chat. Not a dating app.

Explore HeyU Download on theApp Store
How we work
Principle /01

Innovation

We turn hard problems into experiences that feel simple and inviting.

Principle /02

Playful

The best products spark a little joy. We never forget that.

Principle /03

Craft

Details matter. We hold a high bar from the first pixel to the last edge case.

Principle /04

Impact

We build things that brighten people's everyday, not just their screen time.

News
Latest · · 1 min read · HeyU HeyU 3.0 is coming to TestFlight Before 3.0 ships, we're opening a beta through Apple's TestFlight. Here's how to be part of it. · 1 min read · HeyU Building HeyU 3.0: a progress report The next version of HeyU is a complete rebuild, not an update. Here's where it stands and what's left before launch. · 1 min read · Studio A new home for HeyU The Shadow Particle site has been rebuilt from the ground up, and now has its own news section.
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Questions
Yes. Finding new friends and chatting costs nothing. Optional subscriptions and extras unlock more, like seeing who liked you.
HeyU is currently built for iPhone. An Android version isn't available yet. Follow us on social media or check back here for updates.
Every profile photo is reviewed before anyone else sees it, reporting also blocks instantly, and your location is only ever shared coarsely. See the Community Guidelines.
We don't have open positions posted right now, but we're always glad to hear from talented people who care about building thoughtful social products. Drop us a note at support@shadowparticle.com.

More questions? Read the full FAQ or get in touch.

Find your people

Let's bring people together

Get HeyU free