http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/social.media/09/03/cashmore.itunes.ping/index.html?iref=allsearch
I found this article on CNN about Apple's new social network that is in conjunction with iTunes. This social network is meant for users to connect with their friends over musical tastes. It claims to suggest new artists that are similar to the ones you personally like. Ping is trying to compete with other social networking sites by offering different options.
The article talks about how Apple's new network falls short in many aspects. First, its musical suggestions actually have little to do with the artists you like. Especially when the user first starts using Ping, it suggests popular artists. I can see how this would be disappointing for users whose musical tastes are beyond mainstream. The article says that the program almost always suggests Lady GaGa for every user. It seems evident that Ping is trying to use these musical icons to draw in more users.
Another frustrating thing about this new social network is the lack of artists. Since not many iTunes artists know about Ping yet, they would have to be in contact with Apple to create a profile. The article asserts that Apple has to send artists invitations to Ping. This sounds like trouble for independent artists who want to be heard.
All in all, I think Apple had many great ideas in releasing Ping, but it seems that their new program is missing a few key elements. Since Apple is really in sync with their consumers, they will most likely work on improving the social network to how the consumers see fit. Ping may be lacking now, but it will no doubt be better in the future.
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