Traces, a new messaging app for iOS devices

LONDON, ENGLAND: Beau and a team of designers and mobile innovators have created a new messaging app called Traces.

A combination of GPS, augmented reality and peer-to-peer messaging, Traces lets you blend digital content with the world around you and share it with your friends but the catch is your friends can only unlock messages when they're in the right place, at the right time.

With Traces, you can hide messages in the real world for your friends to discover; add a soundtrack to your street; share private videos in public places; create a digital treasure hunt in your city.

Dr. Beau Lotto said: "When you understand how the human brain processes information, you can begin to design mobile and social experiences that actually bring people closer together, increase well-being and to re-engage with the real world. Rather than a repetitive and instantly forgotten click, Traces requires the brain to embark on a process of discovery, generating dopamine and generating empathy between connections. This is a wonderful example of what we call "neurodesign".

Beau said; "Our research shows that people rate content received through Traces as better and more meaningful than the same content received through conventional messaging apps. It also increases their sense of closeness to the person or brand sending it."

Traces is currently working building relationships with a network of creative brands, agencies, artists, educators, publishers and musicians. The platform will open to commercial partners soon, allowing them to engage with audiences in completely new, location specific ways.

The Beta version of the app is available free for iOS devices in the UK App Store and an Android version of Traces and a global launch will follow in the near future.