Camino App Ideas and Brainstorming--help me find the Way :)

Hello fellow peregrinos!

I’ve done a few routes and it’s become something of an obsession of mine. I also happen to be a software developer, and was thinking of merging my two passions.

I used an app in my last camino, and although it did the job, I felt like it could be improved, and am thinking of creating another one. I am hoping to use technology to enhance the experience and maintain the spirit. The bare minimum would be a more intuitive user interface, and a different cost structure (I'm thinking about offering a free, ad-supported version for those of us who are more budget constrained).

I need your help! If you could help me by completing this survey I would very much appreciate it! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Gw6vrgBIFis2_KhKUnCZ2giwI7l-pORvXru-ELR9ym8

Thank you! In addition to the survey, I'd like to get our collective brainstorming ideas flowing. I’d love for you to post and discuss on this thread an answer to this question:

What type of problems did you have on the camino that you thought an app might help with (besides basic route guides and albergue directories). Or what features did you always want but never got?

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Please also categorize if you could (e.g. utility, social, fun, spiritual)

I’ll start:

• I miss shell signs often when lost in thought, would be great if the app could tell me if I’m going off course. [utility]
• I would love to learn more about the towns and historical facts, it would be great if the app could serve as a tour guide [fun]

Thanks for your help!

t2andreo said:

Go to your app store and search for Wise Pilgrim Guides. If Michael has not created an app for it, you likely do not need it.

In particular, he developed an app called "The Yellow X" It tells you if you are presently on the Camino based on your device's location.

It works best for the Camino Frances, as most pilgrims continue that route. Also, pilgrims who are doing other routes likely have already done the Frances, and generally do not have directional problems.

Hope this helps.

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Thanks! I have done a comparison of the apps, including of course Wise Pilgrim. I appreciate your input. Ultimately, I would not pursue this venture if I didn't think I can add something of value.

Another question for you guys. How important do you think images are in your apps or guidebooks, of the scenery and of the albergues?