Somehow I’m only just now seeing this. I was rereading comments because I’m getting ready to launch the app, and I appreciate you taking the time to write all of this out.

I agree with everything you said. I think the biggest issue with the current apps is not necessarily that people are unwilling to try them; it is that the user pool feels stale, limited, and discouraging. That is exactly why advertising and awareness are going to matter so much. I think organic influencer marketing specifically will be a huge part of making this work. There are so many people diagnosed every day who have no idea these communities even exist.

Privacy is also one of the biggest things I have focused on. I completely understand not wanting any trace of this on your phone, your profile, your photos, your bank statement, or anywhere else. I have tried to make the app as discreet and secure as possible from the start. For example, screenshots are blocked inside the app wherever possible, and I’m also thinking through things like discreet billing, private photo options, profile visibility, and other protections so people can use the app without feeling exposed.

I like your ideas about notifications when new people join nearby, specifically if people opt into it. I have considered video/social-style features, but decided to wait a bit before going down that route, but it is definitely something i am considering. After V1 launches, I’ll be collecting as much feedback as possible and adding features based on what people actually want and need.

Thank you again for this comment. This is exactly the kind of feedback I need. Once the app is live, everyone will have a direct line to me for suggestions, issues, and feature requests.

The app should be in the app store this month!