Yesterday, Foursquare launched a major update to its iOS app. Foursquare finally listened to its users and changed the focus from WHO is around to WHAT is around. While the app is still about checking in (it has included a large check-in button front and center on the app’s home screen) it’s added bone afide “concierge” to its resume by helping you find things to do around you. Whether you’re looking for a place to grab a slice of pizza, or trying to find out what club in town is the most popular, there’s a little something for everyone.
I’ve been using Foursquare sparingly for the past year but I had to take the time to give version 6.0 a trial run to see what the hype was about.
When you open Foursquare at the top of the bag is a search box where you can search for something particular, such as a pizza place, near you. The results are then shown on the Explorer page, which is similar to the launch page, showing a list view of establishments meeting your search criteria. Then below the list is a map view of the same information. If you tap on the small map a larger full-screen view will appear with more detail. The map allows you to see the name of the establishment, rating of each location, and it even highlights establishments your friends have visited or left tips.
Besides the specific search features users can use the “Best Nearby” and “Specials Search”. The “Best Nearby” search shows all locations with Foursquare’s suggestions for what to do around you. The “Specials” feature shows all the places that offer specials when you check in at the location.
Foursquare is basically the same app with improved search capabilities. You can still check-in and see where your friends have been, but now it’s a quicker and visually easier. Over the past four years, the app has evolved into a more feature-rich experience, however, there’s still a lot that the app can improve.
Foursquare 6.0 is available now from Apple’s App Store.
Have you purchased downloaded the new Foursquare? What are your thoughts on it?
Deena McKay 