Surfing the web can be a lot of fun, but it's even more entertaining when you can share the cool stuff you find with a friend. Problem is, there isn't always someone with you. Physically, that is.
You can check out pages with virtual friends online – every site you visit is a potential social encounter and chance to meet a like-minded person.
All you have to do is download the software at Weblin.com and then, with each page you visit that is being viewed by another Weblin user, your customized avatar pops up at the bottom of your screen. Your little buddy will hang out there if you leave him alone, or you can interact with other visitors.
“Weblin makes you and others on the Web visible as small avatars. There are others on the same page you are on right now. Weblin opens a new and exciting world on every website.â€
What's Driving This Trend
- Avatar-based Social Interaction
- We expect to see more companies exploring avatar-based interactions to enhance social experiences on the web.
- Virtual Social Co-browsing
- There is potential for virtual browsing experiences that promote social engagement and connection.
- Web-based Social Networking
- More companies may create online social networking platforms integrated with web browsing.
Who This Affects Most
- Social Media
- Using avatars for social interaction on the web connects with the main objectives of social media: communication and connection.
- Gaming
- Gamification of the virtual browsing experience is a potential disruptive innovation opportunity.
- E-commerce
- Incorporating virtual social browsing experiences into e-commerce sites opens new opportunities for social shopping and customer engagement.
