⚓️Anchor — Falling hook, line and sinker.
Following on from my recent post about the lack lustre emergence of a new social app I wanted to discuss another emergence of another new social app. One that I think has potential to go far.
Anchor, launched by Nir Zicherman and Michael Mignano allows users to create sound bites similar to a podcast and share it with the world.
With the rise of public interest in podcasts (Serial) and social media stars jumping in on the action too (Psychobabble) I feel now is as good a time as any to launch Anchor and let the world have a taste of podcasting for free.
Flow on the smooth waves.
Upon launching the app you are greeted by the Nirs (or Michaels?! Don’t kill me guys, short term memory!) voice and are guided smoothly through an introduction to anchor.
Prompted to record your own introductory ‘wave’, you can then connect through Twitter and begin searching for other users waves.
For someone who dreamt of hosting a radio show during college, Anchor immediately caught my eye (or ear?).
With a simple recording method (hold the button or press to stop) and a UI that even the most technophobic could navigate, Anchor is anything but difficult.
Anchor is opening up the world of audio to everyone without the need for expensive recording equipment and editing software.
Now a slight drawback is the maximum recording time of 2 minutes. Personally I would like a longer recording time (podcast dreams remember?) however, this limit forces you to focus on your piece, get to the point and most importantly be creative.
Also could you imagine what nonsensical ramblings would surf the sonic seas if the limit was lifted?
Time to get critical.
As much as I love the idea of the app I fear for how it will be received. Currently the social world is filled with imagery, video and text. It would make sense that now there’s a niche for audio but can audio attract enough people?
Have you ever been at a dinner party and began a conversation with someone interesting directly across from you only to have another guest chime in right when it was getting good? This is what it’s like sometimes on Anchor. Conversational distance.
Potential for Greatness.
But all is not lost I believe if you are an influencer or somewhat known by members of the public Anchor is right up your street! Shifting from audio conversations to audio content.
- Release an audio trailer for your up coming book.
- Discuss the highlights of your recent blog article.
- Start a #motivationmovement and provide your listeners with uplifting content
Possibilities are endless and I’m excited to see what people come up with.
So I recommend if you haven’t already download Anchor, give your eyes a break and start excercising your ears!
Twitter: @jpflynn
