'Stalker' tools that fill you in on your friends' whereabouts & activities
Implications - Social media and special mobile apps have changed the way consumers interact with friends. But status updates on Facebook and Twitter are one thing; tools that actually help you track your friends' whereabouts and activities -- and help you find them -- are another thing entirely. These "stalker"-esque innovations mean you'll never be wondering where your friends are ever again, whether you've lost them in a crowd or they've dodged all your phone calls.
Trend Themes
1. Social Media-based Location Sharing - Consumers are looking to share their whereabouts in real-time and brands should focus on creating experiences that encourage social connection and sharing in a meaningful way.
2. Real-time Location Tracking - Real-time location tracking technology can benefit large sites and multi-level structures, as well as shopping malls by helping managers track shopper traffic patterns and security risks.
3. Group Event Coordination - Technology can make organizing group events easier and more spontaneous, providing a new level of convenience for friends who want to meet up somewhere other than online.
Industry Implications
1. Social Media - The advent of social media has led to consumers seeking new ways to connect with friends and share their experiences, making social media-based location sharing an interesting opportunity for this industry.
2. Retail - Real-time location tracking technology can provide retailers with valuable data on shopper behavior and traffic patterns, allowing them to optimize store layouts and improve targeting of marketing efforts.
3. Mobile App Development - Group event coordination technology presents an excellent opportunity for app developers to create innovative solutions that improve the convenience and spontaneity of planning social events with friends.
