The Circle vs circles*
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
The Circle
Read full descriptionHide full description
Why The Circle Was Created The Circle was created to bring structure, focus, and privacy to the introduction process. Instead of random or unclear suggestions, it helps organize real information so introductions are thoughtful and aligned with shared values and interests. A Modern Way to Begin Natural introductions are less accessible than they once were. The Circle creates access, using modern tools, while preserving discretion and standards. In the past, introductions happened mostly through in-person circles. Today, those opportunities are fewer and more limited. The Circle was created to expand those opportunities, in a structured, private, and community-appropriate way. It’s designed to stay curated, intentional, and aligned with your values.
circles*
A private messaging application designed for intimate communication with close contacts. Share direct and group messages, voice notes, and ephemeral photos or videos. Your identity and profile are synced from an existing account, ensuring a seamless and secure experience.
- Direct and group messaging
- Voice messages
- Ephemeral photo/video sharing (Moments)
- Viewership tracking for Moments
- Profile sync from existing account
Read full descriptionHide full description
Circles is a private messaging app for staying close with the people who matter. • Direct and group messages with the people in your circles • Voice messages • Moments — share a photo or video that disappears after 24 hours • See who has viewed your moments • Your profile, avatar, and identity sync from your Scrolls account Circles uses your existing Scrolls account to sign in — no separate signup required. Your conversations stay between you and your circles.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is update cadence: The Circle at every 8 days against circles*'s every 3 weeks. On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
The Circle ships an update every 8 days, circles* every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 9, 2026 and September 13, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | The Circle | circles* |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | — | 5.0 (1 ratings) — better |
| Positive reviews | — | 100.0% of reviews |
| Number of ratings | — | 1 — better |
| Update frequency | Every 8 days — better | Every 3 weeks |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | — | Free |
| Devices | iPhone, iPod — better | iPhone |
| Requires iOS | 15.0 — better | 16.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 90 MB | 4 MB |
| Age rating | 17+ | 4+ |
| Developer | AlgoAi | CHRISTOPHER ANTHONY PROVOST |
In-app purchases
The Circle
No in-app purchases
circles*
No in-app purchases









