Online social networks such as Bebo, Myspace and Facebook, have traditionally allowed users with access to a PC and an internet connection to socialise online. Until now, sharing videos, photos, news, and messages with friends has been commonplace, however now users can use GPS tracking to share their geo location with the next generation of social networking software.
New social networking websites, including the likes of Bliin, Trackut, and kakiloc, take the whole concept of social networking one step further by integrating current social networking technology with GPS enabled mobile devices. Users can subscribe to the service by downloading a small application, which, once activated, enables them to track the location of other social networkers in real time. Such a system allows users see when friends are nearby, so that meeting friends in person is quick and easy.
Such technology does however have potential pitfalls. As with existing social networking sites, there is the issue of child safety. Non GPS based social networks are continually addressing these issues to make the online community a safe and fun experience for all. However, where users’ locations are freely available on GPS enabled social networks, this matter becomes especially salient. Stef Kolman of Bliin suggests that this is simply a non-issue, as users can choose to be visible only to friends, and not other users. Of course, ensuring that users are aware of this feature, and are able to use it properly, would be a key initiative.
