iPhone App Zealot

PhotoTrader, released 5 November, feels similar to PhotoSwap and adds much needed features. It has been some time since I used PhotoSwap. While a fun app for sharing random photos with random strangers, there were several shortcomings. Almost all have been addressed in Tapestry’s PhotoTrader. Padadaz is also working on a update. Competition is good, and this will drive both products forward. In theory it divides the customer market, but it is easy to use both if you are that in need of swapping pictures.

Rather than point out feature-by-feature how PhotoTrader improves on the concept,what does it do? Swap photos with strangers and include text with the photo. While there it starts with a random element, you can friend people as you get to know them. Friends can then exchange pictures directly. It provides a time-line of who sent you things as well as the ability to review what they sent. You can block someone from sending you more stuff. The FAQ says this is non-reversible. That is fine for the class of individuals we’ll discuss momentarily. There is also a mature setting for those who wish to send, umm, ‘mature’ pix to each other. The good news is no more random crotch shots you were not expecting…unless you have the mature tag, in which case, I can’t imagine PhotoTrader will have any fewer unannounced rooster shots or any less hairy leg shots. And that brings up the one feature I wish they would implement…autoblock those hairy legs. Nobody wants to see that even if you put your your xbox controller on your lap, Mr. HairyLeg Owner. Ah well, no app is perfect.

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