I'm in NZ and have downloaded it and signed up. I've never really gotten into SnapChat because my SnapChat network is slightly too small to keep me using it regularly.
As far as I can tell, the success of these similar apps boil down to network effects. If Instagram can transition their Instagram users into Bolt users in NZ, it might be able to compete with SnapChat, but until they do, it's clearly an uphill battle to build these redundant networks.
Regarding name stealing, I recognise that a lot of people put effort into their branding and I'm not a trademark lawyer, but I haven't seen much success with little companies defending messaging-app marks against big companies.
As far as I can tell, the success of these similar apps boil down to network effects. If Instagram can transition their Instagram users into Bolt users in NZ, it might be able to compete with SnapChat, but until they do, it's clearly an uphill battle to build these redundant networks.
Regarding name stealing, I recognise that a lot of people put effort into their branding and I'm not a trademark lawyer, but I haven't seen much success with little companies defending messaging-app marks against big companies.