Isaac Gemal, a New York-based app developer, has launched WikiTok, a unique site that allows users to swipe through an endless stream of random Wikipedia article snippets. Inspired by the vertical scrolling format of TikTok, WikiTok offers a refreshing way to discover new information—without the addictive grip of algorithm-driven social media.

The concept is simple: instead of curated content designed to maximize engagement, WikiTok delivers a purely random selection of Wikipedia entries. Each article preview is paired with an image from Wikipedia, and if something catches your interest, you can tap “Read More” to access the full page.

Despite the TikTok-inspired name, WikiTok is entirely video-free and currently resists tailoring content to user preferences. Gemal has deliberately chosen to keep the experience free from algorithms, a rarity in today’s digital landscape.

“I’ve had plenty of people ask me to implement some kind of crazy WikiTok algorithm,” Gemal told Ars Technica. “But we’re already surrounded by opaque, ruthless algorithms in our everyday lives—why can’t we have one little corner of the internet without them?”

A Random and Addictive Knowledge Adventure

Since the feed is completely unpredictable, users never know what they’ll encounter next, making each swipe a mini intellectual adventure. On a recent browsing session, WikiTok served up articles on:

SX-Window, a GUI for the Sharp X68000 computer series
Xantocillin, a natural compound containing an isocyanide group
Lorenzo Ghiberti, a Renaissance sculptor from Florence
The William Wheeler House in Texas
The city of Krautheim, Germany

This breadth of topics reflects the vast scope of Wikipedia itself.

Built for Open Access and Collaboration

WikiTok is accessible via mobile and desktop browsers and currently supports 14 languages, article previews, and easy sharing. Gemal has also made the project open-source on GitHub, allowing developers to tweak or expand its features. The site is built using React 18, TypeScript, Tailwind CSS, and Vite, making it lightweight and efficient.

No Ads, No Tracking, No Algorithmic Tricks

Unlike mainstream social media platforms that rely on engagement-driven algorithms to keep users hooked, WikiTok offers a serendipitous, distraction-free way to explore knowledge.

“I have no grand plans for some hyper-monetized, calculating TikTok algorithm,” Gemal said. “If anything, it’s anti-algorithmic.”

For those tired of endless doom-scrolling on traditional social media, WikiTok offers a refreshing alternative—one that’s entertaining, educational, and free from manipulation.