Orkut Büyükkökten has updated Orkut.com with a public campaign inviting people to support a proposed social network focused on verified users, communities and meaningful relationships. The move has renewed interest among former Orkut users, particularly in India and Brazil, where the original platform once had a strong following.
However, the website does not confirm the return of the original Orkut service. Instead, it asks adults to join a supporter list and share a campaign card. The page also makes clear that signing up does not secure a username, create an account or guarantee a place in a registration queue.
What the New Orkut Website Reveals
In a message published on the website, Büyükkökten argues that mainstream social media platforms have increasingly prioritised engagement and attention over genuine friendships. His proposed network would place real people and communities at the centre of the experience.
The plan also involves using artificial intelligence to help users discover like-minded people and develop stronger friendships, rather than allowing technology to replace human interaction.
The campaign form requests a person’s name, country and email address. Providing a phone number and agreeing to receive marketing communications are optional. Participants must be over 18, and the website identifies Orkut, Inc. as the organisation behind the initiative.
Is the Original Orkut Platform Returning?
There is currently no evidence that Google plans to restore the original Orkut social network. Google discontinued the service on September 30, 2014, after it had operated for a decade.
The updated website communicates Büyükkökten’s vision for a new platform rather than announcing the recovery of old accounts, profiles, testimonials or communities. Users should therefore not interpret the campaign as confirmation that their former Orkut accounts or content will become available again.
This is not the founder’s first attempt to develop a social platform centred on positive relationships. He previously launched Hello, an app designed to encourage meaningful connections, which was later shut down.
In a 2024 interview with Wired, Büyükkökten also discussed his work on another platform that would use artificial intelligence and machine learning to support happiness and community building.
Launch Date, Features and Other Details Remain Unknown
Several important details about the proposed social network have yet to be disclosed. The website does not identify the platform’s name, funding arrangements, ownership structure, technical features, moderation policies or privacy protections.
It also provides no information about when account registration might begin or whether any information from the original Orkut service could be restored. Availability across different countries has not been confirmed either.
For now, the updated website is best viewed as a campaign to measure public interest in the founder’s next social networking project. It indicates that Büyükkökten wants to build a new platform, but it does not establish that the original Orkut is coming back.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the information presented on Orkut.com and the publicly reported statements referenced above. The proposed platform’s features, launch timeline and availability have not been confirmed. Details may change as the founder or organisation releases further announcements.