Apps We Wish Existed (But Don’t)

Apps We Wish Existed (But Don't)
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All of us here at BIGfish Communications like to think we’re pretty tech savvy (as a tech PR company, that comes as no surprise). We all do some amount of work from our phones, using apps like Docs, Sheets and Sunrise. Some of us try to make our public transit commute easier with apps like OkCommuter, Greenline or NextBus. We find Target deals with Cartwheel and monitor our front doors thanks to client Ring’s Video Doorbell app. But even with all the great (and weird) apps on the market these days, there are still a few we’re missing.

There’s already an app for when you want to remember where you parked your car – and want to be reminded of its location by a pirate. Or for when you want to decipher what the ghosts around you are saying. Or for creating a fictional Kardashian-style celeb life. Or for sending a Facebook message in an app other than the Facebook app (seriously, Facebook?). If there are apps for less-than-essential things like those, why aren’t there apps for useful things like these?

1. Asking for a Friend: Like OkCupid, but for friends:

Lots of “find new friends” apps exist, but they all focus around attending specific events that potential new friends are going to as well. Our app isn’t event-focused, allowing you to make plans with new friends on your own schedule. See people around you looking for friends, what you have in common and what they like to do for fun. Match up and send messages to start your new friendship! Perfect for college students or anyone moving to a new city.

2. Where2P: Like Yelp, but for bathrooms:

The premise is simple: where is the closest public-access restroom and how clean is it? The people over at Procter & Gamble got started on one (called SitOrSquat) but haven’t figured out how to make it more user-friendly (i.e. location services and legalese overload). Simply open the app and use GPS services to locate the nearest public-access restrooms and see a rating on cleanliness. A must-have for vacationers and tourists!

3. Directory: Like Google Maps, but for malls:

Mall directories can be confusing and outdated; more often than not, it’s hard to find one at all. This app would provide an up-to-date, interactive mall directory right on your mobile device. GPS services locate what mall you’re at and allow you to search for a specific store, followed by directions on how to get there. If you’re just looking to browse, the map feature shows the mall layout and lets you click on stores for more information – or search for keywords like “shoes” or “jewelry.” While you may not need this in your hometown mall, anyone looking for an easier way to navigate unfamiliar shopping plazas will find this helpful.

4. PredictaAPPble: Like predictive text, but for apps:

The app store is home to over 1 million apps. It’s almost impossible to know if there’s an app out there designed to make your life easier. This app would keep track of your Internet searches and most-used apps, and then suggest new apps that could help streamline your mobile experience. Who knew you could download Yelp instead of searching “good restaurants near me”? This app did.

5. YourSale: Like Eventbrite, but for yard sales:

Those well-designed “Sale at 7 Kent St.” fliers attached to traffic light poles are great, but sometimes you need a bit more information to know if a yard sale is worth your time. This app adds some detail to those vague signs. Hosts can upload photos of their best items, the dates and times they’re open and their location. Those looking for sales will use their current location to see what’s closest to them and if they’re interested in anything offered. RSVP to let the host know you’re coming and see how popular the event is. Save time, plan your day and go hunt those bargains!
Have an app that you think should be made next? Know an app that’s an answer to the predicaments we described above? Let us know in the comments or tweet us @BIGfishPR!

BIG fish PR is an unconventional agency that helps its clients redefine their industries.