Dynamic Social App Catalyst Launches to Encourage Real-World User Interactions Based on Current Location and Shared Interests

App Gives Users a Safe and Fun Way to Meet New People - Friend Feed Shows Location of User's Friends Based on Check-in Data

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Catalyst

Nov 11, 2013, 11:30 ET

DURHAM, N.C., Nov. 11, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Catalyst a social networking application development firm, announced today the launch of its eponymous local-based app to help users connect with each other in person at their favorite local hangouts. The app, available for iOS devices, is exceedingly simple, with users able to begin using it immediately after signing in through Facebook or Twitter or by creating a Catalyst account.

The app presents a dynamic portrait of individual users by encouraging them to take a "selfie" camera shot every 24 hours. The daily picture serves as the user's Catalyst profile and becomes part of a broader image collection intended to showcase the user's style and frequent activities. Users check-in their location via Catalyst, which prompts a dynamic list of user profiles and statuses present at that location. The user can anonymously "like" other users, and when two nearby users both "like" each other, they can instantly connect through Catalyst's chat service, allowing them to get to know one another before deciding to meet in person—which is exceedingly convenient since they're both at the same venue.

Unlike dating sites and other apps where users often post outdated or staged profile photos, the "selfie" approach used by Catalyst means interested users not only see what the other person genuinely looks like, they can also compare favorite visited restaurants, bars, and other attractions.

"Catalyst provides singles and groups of friends with a great way to safely connect in real time," said founder Peter Simmons. "Users have complete control over interactions, as they can be visible or invisible, anonymously like profiles, and use chat to learn more about other people. Many members of the younger generation are simply more comfortable behind a smartphone screen, and Catalyst is a way for them to confidently engage in real world interactions with the help of advanced technology."

In addition to helping users meet interesting new people, the app also features a Friend Feed which is activated when the user checks-in at local places. The friends' locations are displayed on a map in real time, so the user can quickly make decisions about which group or groups of friends they want to visit.

To find out more about Catalyst, please visit www.thecatalystapp.com.

To download the app for iOS devices, visit
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/catalyst-meet-new-friends/id730992797?ls=1&mt=8

About Catalyst
Catalyst is the social network that goes out with you. Catalyst users check in wherever they are to view recent photos of other Catalyst users in the same location, "like" potential matches and engage in secure chats that could lead to a face-to-face meeting. A crowdsourced social network, Catalyst is also a great way to keep track of friends when out on the town. The easy-to-use app features a Friend Feed with maps showing the locations of friends who have checked in at local bars, restaurants or clubs. Find out more at www.thecatalystapp.com.

SOURCE Catalyst