As face time dwindles, consumers turn to apps for help expressing feelings
Implications - Digital interaction has created a generation awkward when it comes to face-to-face socializing, which has resulted in apps that coach them on how to interact. This shift towards digital social direction identifies consumer preference for autonomy and guidance throughout even the most rudimentary of actions.
Trend Themes
1. App-enabled Emoting - Apps that coach users on how to interact identify consumer preference for autonomy and guidance, resulting in a shift towards digital social direction.
2. AI Empathy-building Apps - AI-based apps like 20 Day Stranger help people build empathy by connecting two anonymous strangers and sharing their daily experiences for a set period.
3. Personal Messaging Apps - Apps like Xpress that use facial recognition to allow users to send emotional selfies open new opportunities for personal messaging.
Industry Implications
1. Digital Coaching Industry - Apps that coach users on socializing can spark the growth of a new digital coaching industry.
2. AI-based Socializing Industry - AI-based solutions that automate socializing can emerge as a new industry to address the growing problem srelated to face-to-face communication.
3. Anonymous Social Networking Industry - The trend towards anonymous social networks like Awkward app can create new use cases and opportunities for social networking platforms.
