From take-out orders to insurance claim filings, photo messages and “little programs,” there’s a lot to look forward to in the app development world. These four exciting developments are in the works right now:
1. Shake Shack Mobile Ordering App
Everyone’s favorite trendy burger joint is testing a mobile ordering app. Yes, the dream of being able to avoid lines at Shake Shack may be a reality in the near future.
The company recently announced that it was testing an app that allows customers to order their meal, pay for it through the app, and have it waiting for them when they arrive. A pick-up time must be chosen, and guests receive a text when their order is ready for pickup.
Right now, it looks like this is just a single market test, and we’ve yet to hear any details as to when (or if) the app will be released.
Those who have tested the app claim it’s seamless, easy to use and ready for launch as-is.
CEO Randy Garutti says Shake Shack still has a lot to learn with its app. They intend to take their time listening to their guests and making tweaks along the way.
2. Snapsheet Helps Drivers File Insurance Claims
Snapsheet, a Chicago-based startup, just raised $20 million in a Series C round of funding for an app that helps drivers file an insurance claim after an accident.
The app is designed as a white label product for insurance companies. It walks drivers through the process of gathering photos and information at the scene of the accident, and then submit claims.
On the back-end, Snapsheet helps insurance companies virtually process claims, eliminating the need to send out an adjuster to inspect the vehicle.
Snapsheet says its goal is to help insurance companies process its claims quickly, to help customers get paid quickly and to make sure drivers get back into safe, repaired vehicles quickly.
One major feature the development team hopes to implement, if they have the funding, is machine learning, which will be used to predict customer questions and provide them with answers.
3. Facebook Snapchat Stories Clone
Facebook is expanding its testing of its Snapchat Stories clone to Australia. Known as Messenger Day, the sharing feature allows users to send photos and videos to friends that disappear after 24 hours.
Facebook confirmed that it’s testing the feature, but noted that this is just a “small test.”
There’s still no word on whether the social network giant will roll out Messenger Day to other markets. However, many speculate that Facebook would face challenges if it planned to go head-to-head with Snapchat, which is now used by 60 million people daily in the United States alone.
4. WeChat Floating ‘Lite’ App Experiences
The most popular chat app in China, WeChat, is testing a new and convenient feature that would allow users to access mobile services and apps without having to download apps individually.
Known as “Little Program,” the feature would allow users to access certain services offered by apps by either scanning a QR code or searching for the feature.
If successful, Little Program may prove to be a threat to major smartphone app distributers, like the Apple Store.
