After its failed attempt with Google+ which eventually led it shutdown (Adieu!), we thought Google was done trying to get a share of the social network market. Well, the launch of Google's latest app called Shoelace shows it isn't done with social networking.
According to the search giant, the Shoelace app was made to help people with shared interest connect and as well find activities to do with these people. This app encourages people to meet and do activities in real life, rather than Facebook, Twitter, etc., which connects people on the web.
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"Shoelace is a mobile app that helps connect people with shared interests through in person activities. It's great for folk who have recently moved cities or who are looking to meet others who live nearby," the shoelace website read.
The Shoelace app was built by Google's in-house incubator Area 120, with a mission to help facilitate real-world connection.
As per the website, Shoelace is great for people who just moved to a new city and don't know much people but are looking for people to meet. For now, the app is only available only in New York city, though developers are working on expanding the service to other cities across the US.
"While our goal is to bring Shoelace to cities nationwide, we've decided to focus our efforts on New York City at first," Shoelace website reads. "This will help us determine what works and what doesn't as we work to make the app available to more people."
To connect users, the app will ask for users interests and then recommend a series of "hand-picked" local activities which are called "Loops." Users can also create their activities and then invite others to join in.
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On privacy and safety, Google assures users that their "safety and privacy" are taken "seriously at shoelace." The Internet giant went on to explain that members undergo verification to ensure that they attend Loop with people they want to meet and get to know.
"After installing the app, we ask each user to join a community-- which often require verification-- to ensure you only attend Loops with people you might want to know," the website said.
"We also work hard to make sure that everything you see in shoelace- from profiles to Loops- is aligned with our House Rules and community standards," the website added.
Apart from the geo-restrictions on Shoelace, the app, for now is invite-only. If you happen to be living in New York City, you can request an invite by filling up this Google form. The app is available for download for free on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store (via Test Flight).