Case Study

Product Innovation with BeReal

Designing the Next Big Social Feature

Product Manager (Externship)
March 2026 - May 2026
BeReal (via Extern)
Product Innovation with BeReal

Project Goals

Design and prototype the next breakthrough social feature for BeReal's 40M+ user platform. The objective is to boost monthly active users (MAUs) and deepen engagement while preserving BeReal's core mission of authentic, unfiltered connection. Deliverables include a comprehensive product strategy, user research insights, competitive analysis, and a portfolio-ready feature prototype.

My Role

Serving as Product Manager through Extern's externship program in partnership with BeReal. Leading end-to-end product discovery—from user research and journey mapping to competitor analysis and feature prototyping. Collaborating directly with cross-functional stakeholders to translate insights into actionable product recommendations that drive real business impact at scale.

Key Results

In Progress

Focus Groups

Peer usability testing and feedback synthesis

In Development

Prototype Status

Interactive feature flow in Canva

5 of 5

Deliverables

User journey, competitor analysis, prototype, tests, pitch deck

Executive Summary

Currently designing and prototyping a new social feature for BeReal, a fast-growing social app with 40M users worldwide. Leading user research, competitor analysis, and feature prototyping to boost monthly active users (MAUs). This hands-on externship provides portfolio-ready product management experience and direct exposure to real PM decision-making at scale.

The Challenge

BeReal is fighting to stay relevant in a landscape dominated by filters and algorithms. The challenge is to design a feature that drives engagement and user growth while staying true to BeReal's mission of authentic, unfiltered connection. The feature must resonate with BeReal's user base and compete with engagement-driving features from TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat.

My Approach

1

Mapping end-to-end user journey to identify friction points and drop-off moments

2

Conducting competitive analysis of TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat engagement features

3

Designing and prototyping new feature in Canva with interactive flows

4

Running focus group tests to validate feature concept and gather user feedback

5

Synthesizing insights into high-impact stakeholder pitch deck

Key Achievements

Developing portfolio-ready product management deliverables

Gaining hands-on experience with real PM workflows and decision-making

Learning feature design methodology from industry leaders

Building network with BeReal leadership and product team

Creating presentation and storytelling skills for stakeholder communication

Technologies & Tools

Canva ProUser ResearchCompetitive AnalysisPrototypingFocus Group TestingPitch Deck Design

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