A new iPad app called Flipboard has been the subject of enthusiastic reviews in Website magazine and other media outlets recently. The app connects to your social media accounts, aggregates content from those sources, and presents it in a “slick, easy-to-use ‘personal magazine,'” says the Website magazine article.
“Every time the app is launched, your magazine will show articles, images, links and videos that your friends – and presumably you – find interesting. As said in the video demonstration below, ‘It always has content you care about.’ This is the future of content – personalized, engaging and valuable to consumers. It’s not to be taken lightly and will soon go far beyond social media.”
The article includes an embedded video. While watching it, I wondered whether this would finally push me to the point where I absolutely, positively had to go out and by an iPad. I’ve been sorely tempted, but have until now adopted a prudent “wait and see” attitude recommended by a technically savvy friend who refuses to even consider it until they include a USB port and more features that would allow him to use it for his work.
After watching the video, my verdict was, I’m going to keep my money in my pocket for now. It looks intriguing, but honestly, I’m not sure I want to read a magazine curated entirely by my friends. Don’t get me wrong. I love my friends and love to spend time with them in real life. But I haven’t friended them on Facebook because of their ability to point me towards content that is relevant. Content that is fun? Yes. Content that I love to browse in my spare time? Absolutely. Content that is essential to my work and would prompt me to plop down hundreds of dollars for a device? Uh, no.
I suspect at some point I’ll buy an iPad but not until I’m convinced it is an essential work tool rather than just another fun toy. And I have added this app to the many on my wish list. In the meantime, the Flipboard app does present a tantalizing glimpse into the future of online content.
To find out more, you can read the article in Website Magazine, or view the YouTube video below.
How to gather information, assess it, and present it in a way readers will understand and appreciate