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Jason Cipriani/CNET
Each summer, I live on the back patio more than I do inside my home. Between grilling dinner (and sometimes lunch), working at a picnic table and playing with the kids — my time is well-spent outdoors. Sitting just above the doorway leading back into the house is one of those lights, meant to attract bugs with an inviting glow.
In a way, that’s how I feel about Peeq. Only instead of being introduced to the Grim Reaper after being summoned by the glow, you’re introduced to random strangers all over the world.
Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNET
After launching Peeq and going through the brief tutorial (pictured above), you’re presented with the “Telescope” screen. On this screen is a series of circular avatars representing fellow users. Those users who are closest to you are located at the top, with users getting further away as you scroll down the list. Tap on a photo to enlarge it, and then request a Peeq from the user by tapping on the blue button. You can’t send unsolicited Peeqs, as it were.
If the user accepts your request, he or she can send you a 6-second video clip. To which you can reply with a video of your own, or request another. Not too enthused about the aspect of sharing videos with complete strangers? I can’t blame you; there’s an option to add your Facebook friends as well.
Screenshot by Jason Cipriani/CNET
The videos shared between you and your “friend” are stored in the Conversations tab, for viewing time and time again. It’s a different take on what a social network is, with a hint of Vine splashed with a dash of Snapchat stirred together in a smartphone-sized pot.
Peeq is available for iOS and Android. You can read more about the Germany-based company service on its website, http://www.pq.am.
