As of today, Foursquare is rolling out the more socially focused Swarm app for iPhone and Android, offering it alongside the existing Foursquare app.
Like Foursquare, Swarm users still have the option to "check in," although now the experience is focused on finding friends and activities to do nearby, instead of just reporting your whereabouts. With the 'Find My Friends' feature, you're able to see who's nearby and suggest something that you can do together, although the locations are not as specific as with Foursquare. Swarm also shows "passive location signals" for friends who are close by, but haven't checked in.
In the coming weeks, The Verge reports that some of Foursquare's gamified features like the mayorships and leaderboards will be replaced with new ones that push for more discovery.
Social Check-In Apps (UPDATE)
Foursquare's Swarm App is More About Social Buzz
Trend Themes
1. Location-based Social Apps - The growth of Swarm shows that social media users are focused on more location-based and real-time communications.
2. Gamification of Social Media - Gamifying social media, as seen with Foursquare, can lead to better engagement and drive more user activity and interaction.
3. Integrating Friends Into Social Media - Apps like Swarm with integrated 'Find My Friends' features offer a more social way to explore surroundings and create plans with friends.
Industry Implications
1. Social Media - Social media companies can incorporate Foursquare's gamification features to keep users interested and engaged in their platforms.
2. Tourism and Hospitality - The use of Swarm's location-based services in the tourism and hospitality industries can provide personalized recommendations and increase customer satisfaction.
3. Outdoor Activities - Through Swarm's 'Find My Friends' function, the outdoor activities industry can better create opportunities for friends and families to spend time together outside.