Digital entertainment firm Buongiorno has unveiled the latest version of its mobile social network, blinko, which enables user to select 20 people with whom to share constant and meaningful relationships, in total privacy, based at the same time, on timely and up-to-date information.
A recent survey conducted by HPLabs and Cornell University found that in reality, each individual is in regular contact with about 20 people, who represent their key points of reference in everyday life. This means, says Buongiorno, that any social network contains two sub-sets: one packed with acquaintances with whom we have little genuine interaction and the other, more select but with whom we interact more fully. blinko has decided to concentrate on this subset.Thanks to an exclusive SMS notification service, blinko allows users to use their mobiles to share and interact with their 20 favourite contacts, without necessarily having to start a mobile Internet session. User can also send up to 30 free text messages a day to their circle of 20 favourites.
In addition, users can follow up to 10 Channels. These offer a constant update on music, sport and film, as well as national and local events. News from blinko Channels can be commented on and shared with a users 20 favourites direct from their mobile.
Buongiorno notes that the social network phenomenon has changed significantly in recent months and, just like every mass phenomenon, is developing along lines different from those expected initially. Users of social networks started to use them only on the Internet, often building up huge and endless networks of acquaintances, consisting of people who, in most cases, do not know one another directly – or with whom no genuine, concrete and continuous relationships exist. The repercussions in terms of privacy and overcrowding have led many people to rethink the practical utility of such extended and non-selective networks. Buongiorno says its response is a new strategic approach, which radically changes the social networks boundaries and allows privacy problems to be minimized, thanks to personalized management of the number and type of SMS notifications.
We are convinced that the future of social networking will be increasingly more mobile, and blinko represents a truly innovative platform, in technological and strategic terms, says Buongiorno Chairman, Mauro Del Rio. Therefore, it is the ideal choice for all those who want to communicate with their select circle of friends, in an enjoyable and appealing way. It has always been our mission to offer real added value for mobile communications, and we believe that blinko will allow everyone to create their own private social network to stay in touch with their 20 favourites.”