Blog 2 ​

In today's lecture, we discussed the key ingredients for a successful app: authentic demand, simple design, and readily available technology. In the modern era, numerous methods exist for staying connected with long-distance friends and family. These methods encompass Skype, email, text messaging, social media, and, for Apple device users, Facetime. Facetime has transformed casual video calling by providing users with this functionality without the need to download an additional app or create a new account. In fact, many of my friends have mentioned that their choice of an iPhone is motivated by their desire to utilize Facetime.

The primary differentiator of Facetime from other video calling applications is the fact that it comes pre-installed on every iPhone. Given that the iPhone is one of the most popular mobile phones globally, Facetime is the go-to choice for most individuals seeking to engage in video chats. This seemingly minor distinction, the absence of a requirement to download another app or set up an account, sets Facetime apart from many other video chat platforms. In contrast, other apps like Zoom and Skype necessitate either creating an account or generating a meeting link to connect with others via video chat. Facetime simplifies the process to the extent that video chatting is as straightforward as making a regular phone call. You can initiate a Facetime call with anyone at any time, and their phone will ring just like it would if you were making a traditional voice call. Just like with the Ipad and Iphone, Apple didn’t invent this technology. Video chatting existed long before Facetime. But, Apple championed it by slightly tweaking it to make connecting with others practically effortless. This small change made a huge difference.