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- Ripple: Group Chats Reborn
Ripple: Group Chats Reborn
Building the group chat app I wish WhatsApp built
What is Ripple
Ripple is not just a social networking application; it's a solution designed to address the common obstacles faced by users on conventional platforms. The discomfort of engaging in conversations with strangers or the anxiety of joining a new group are all too familiar. Ripple's mission is to make meeting new people and building relationships less daunting and more accessible.
Carousel of Members
Perhaps one of the most interactive aspects of Ripple, the Carousel feature lets users swipe through an array of profile cards of other members. This Tinder-esque feature allows users to casually explore the member base, offering a fun and engaging way to discover new potential connections.
Swipe up on a card to view profiles
Ripple has incorporated a user interface gesture, which is instinctive to the modern smartphone user - the swipe up action. Swiping up on a card unfolds the full profile of a user, presenting a more comprehensive view of the individual. This feature enriches the discovery process, giving users a chance to explore a person's interests, hobbies, and more before initiating a conversation.
Anonymous group chats
One of Ripple's standout features is anonymous group chats. This alleviates one of the most common social anxieties tied to group chats: the fear of asking questions to a group of strangers. In Ripple, all group messages are anonymous, encouraging users to interact without the burden of judgment or bias. This sets Ripple apart as an app that prioritizes comfort and ease of communication over everything else.
Mutual consent required before DMing someone
Ripple maintains a strong focus on privacy and consent. The platform requires mutual consent before users can DM each other, preventing unsolicited messages. This not only protects user privacy but also fosters a respectful community where members can interact with confidence.
Make groups for anything
Ripple offers an open canvas for creating groups. Whether it's for a hobby, an event, or a cause, the power to create a group is at the fingertips of the user. This feature ensures that Ripple can cater to diverse interests and fosters an inclusive environment for all users.
Join any group and make new friends
Ripple encourages users to step outside their comfort zone, join any group of interest, and make new friends. This lends a sense of belonging, making the platform not just a networking tool, but a thriving online community.
Why build Ripple?
The core philosophy behind Ripple is to simplify the process of meeting new people and forming connections. It’s meant to address the common hurdles in traditional group messaging platforms like WhatsApp or GroupMe, where people often feel anxious about interacting with unknown, or new, group members. By providing an array of people-first features, Ripple offers a comprehensive solution for this age-old problem.
Ripple’s beta, at time of writing, is available for download on Apple’s TestFlight. If you’re interested in playing around with it or learning more about how I built it, feel free to reach out!
[ Zach Coriarty ]
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