BeFriends: Collaborative BeReal
Disclaimer: I do not have all of the key details of BeReal’s user base, and I am making assumptions, based on limited information. This article is simply me diving into one of my favorite companies and exploring a feature that seems intriguing, although it may not be possible due to limitations.
What is BeReal?
BeReal is a social media application that is known for its authenticity and spontaneity. It encourages users to be in the moment and share pieces from their day to day lives without overthinking about what they are posting.
Who Uses BeReal?
What is BeFriends?
BeFriends is a feature within BeReal that will allow users to collaborate on a joint BeReal when they are within a certain distance of each other. When the usual BeReal alerts goes off users who are close together (and friends) will have the ability to do a joint post to BeReal.
How Does BeFriends Work?
V1 Mock-Ups
Considerations for BeFriends
- Permissions Needed: Since BeFriends will require a very precise location for each user we will need to deeply evaluate the permissions needed in order to ensure a flawless user experience when using BeFriends.
- Guidance on First Use: I have currently incorporated a banner on the main screen informing users about the new feature, BeFriends. However, I am not sure if this is enough guidance to show users how to use it.
- Time Constraints: BeReal’s msission is to encourage authenticity, I want to ensure that this feature doesn’t push users to wait to post their BeReal until they are with friends. One way to mitigate this may be by only allowing BeFriends when users post on time.
Future of BeFriends
- More Collaboration: In the future I would love to incorporate collaborating with multiple friends rather than just one at a time, this way no one will feel left out or excluded.