WO2021159039A1 - Systems and methods for locating popular locations and dating - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed are systems and methods to capture and share location-based events on an online interactive platform to improve social connection between people and businesses. The methods comprise using a server to connect an online cloud-based application, such as a cellular device application, that is accessed via a plurality of communication devices. Upon accessing the cloud-based application, users are able to view information about other users' locations and add information about locations, events, or people. The methods further comprise utilizing the cloud-based application for meeting other users and interacting with businesses in a social sense through a plurality of tools present in the platform.

Description

Systems and Methods for Locating Popular Locations and Dating

Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 62/971,380, filed on February 7, 2020, and US Provisional Application No. 63/133,011, filed on December 31, 2020, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

Background

[0002] Many applications, including different forms of social media, are designed to connect people, places, events, and experiences. Electronic communications technologies have been designed to allow for the interconnection of people and businesses, allowing such users to create and distribute electronic content. An important function of these online platforms is the ability for users to document experiences through check-ins, pictures, videos, and text for other users to enjoy. For example, mobile phones are used to take photographs, capture video, record audio, and communicate with others through voice calls, transmissions, voice messages, text messages, electronic mail messages, and other similar electronic transmissions. These types of transmissions are generally referred to herein as digital content. Through such electronic transmissions, digital content can be transferred from user to user in a point-to-point fashion, for example, as a voice telephone call, or transmitted by the digital content creator to a central storage platform known in the art for broader dissemination. However, as technology improves in these content development programs, so does the ability to alter images and what users portray to the world, often sharing a false or enhanced reality. Many users often seek the most raw and realistic portrayal of a scene to gauge how it might fit user expectations prior to arrival at an event or business. Similarly, businesses may want the most accurate representation of both a company and the clientele of a company as true to life advertising for potential customers.

[0003] Mobile applications “apps” used for meeting and interacting with people, such as dating apps, strive to find successful matches when pairing users together. Currently, apps do not prohibit users from falsely representing themselves, and therefore people fall victim to deceitful behavior such as “catfishing” - the act of luring an individual into a relationship by means of a fictional online identity for some type of gain, e.g., financial, emotional, or sexual exploratory or predatory gain. Similarly, businesses are able to falsely present reviews, thereby tricking customers into a different experience or product than what the business truly provides. Many algorithms and filters have been and are continually being developed to effectively minimize fake social media accounts or reviews, but none have been proven to be absolutely successful as new scams and fake persona emerge in the ever-growing social media business. As a result, the social media providers are also offering greater restrictions to provide users with more authentic experiences.

[0004] Currently, mobile applications are specialized in only restaurants, events, or social interaction and fail to provide real time data on the flow of individuals through society. Combining the features of several different mobile applications and integrating the same with new features can provide relief to individuals looking to better connect with both businesses and people in various communities.

Summary

[0005] Systems and methods are disclosed for a community-based social media platform to allow for peer-to-peer recommendations to influence neighbors by capturing and sharing location-based events on an online interactive platform to improve social connection between people and businesses. One aspect of the disclosure provides a system for capturing and sharing location-based events through a cloud-based program. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the system includes a memory configured to store a plurality of user locations. The memory is designed to constantly, and in real-time, receive locations of users and store the locations and related information in a form to be visible to other users. Users may operate and allow one or more wireless devices to transmit true, trusted, and confirmed locations and provide personal information to enrich information available to other users. User information for both individuals and businesses, as well as features to enhance user experience, are accessed through a server of an online interactive platform. In some embodiments this may be a mobile application accessible through a user’s wireless device.

[0006] In another embodiment, provided is a method for capturing and sharing location-based events on an online interactive platform. The method may include applying a user location to create an interactive map showing proximity to other users. Additionally, the map can provide details about the users for others to view. The method can include a media generating ability (e.g., pictures, videos, or text) that pairs with both the user that created the media and the location where the media was created. Media may be visible to all users, or may be restricted, on the platform to create an interactive experience between users. Media can be posted by the user without explicit modification, such as the application of filters to allow for a real-time data transmission that reflects actual, rather than modified transmission. Such media may subsequently be removed by the user after initial transmission. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] The detailed description makes reference to the accompanying figures wherein:

[0008] FIG. la and FIG. lb illustrate example user interfaces for an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0009] FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b illustrate example composite images in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustrates an example user interface for a list of participating businesses in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0011] FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface for specific business details in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0012] FIG. 5 illustrates an example composite of images for a business in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface for finding a specific business on an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0014] FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b illustrate an example user interface for interacting with businesses on a map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0015] FIG. 8a - FIG. 8d illustrate an example user interface for adding pictures to a business on an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0016] FIG. 9 illustrates an example user interface for locating users at a business on an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0017] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 illustrate an example user interface for notifications in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0018] FIG. 12 illustrates an example user interface for a personal profile and associated settings in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0019] FIG. 13 illustrates an example user interface for selecting available files to view in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0020] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 illustrate examples of composite images for an individual user in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0021] FIG. 16 illustrates an example composite of images for a business in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0022] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of an example process for navigating through user interfaces in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. [0023] FIG. 18 is a diagram of infrastructure in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0024] FIG. 19 is a flowchart of exemplary functions of the platform.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a process diagram representing the flow of populating the location information.

[0026] FIG. 21 is a flow diagram of the camera function in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0027] FIG. 22 is a flow diagram depicting user status tracking and enhancement.

[0028] FIG. 23 depicts a flow diagram of an exemplary platform in accordance with the principles disclosed herein, operational in a cloud-based software environment.

[0029] FIG. 24 is a flow diagram depicting an exemplary content delivery network.

[0030] FIGs. 25 through 34 depict screenshots of the functionality of the venue interface in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0031] FIGs. 35 through 64 depict screenshots demonstrating the functionality of the user interface in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0032] FIGs. 65 through 68 depict screenshots demonstrating the functionality of the venue interface in accordance with the principles disclosed herein.

[0033] The figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the principles disclosed herein. The figures do not illustrate every aspect of the principles disclosed herein and do not limit the scope of the principles disclosed herein. Other objects, features, and characteristics will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description.

Detailed Description

[0034] A detailed illustration is disclosed herein. However, techniques, methods, processes, systems and operating structures in accordance with the principles disclosed herein may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those disclosed herein. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative.

[0035] Any reference to a “process” or a “platform” is exemplary and is intended to encompass the terms process, art, or method, and includes a new use of a known process or machine as well as other machines. The terms “first,” “second,” and the like may refer to different or identical objects. The foregoing terms are used to illustrate the principles disclosed herein and are not intended to be limiting. Other explicit and implicit definitions may also be included below. As used herein, the singular terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the word “or” is intended to include “and” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “comprises” means “includes.” Hence “comprising A or B” means including A, B, or A and B. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the present specification, including explanations of terms, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0036] Methods and systems for capturing and sharing location-based events on an online interactive platform are presented herein. The disclosure herein relates generally to handheld electronic devices and, more particularly, the transmission of certain photographic images and related content in a social media messaging environment. The platform disclosed herein is primarily designed to operate in and with known handheld electronic devices featuring wireless communication capability, such as cellular telephones, handheld computers, handheld tablets, and like stand-alone devices that are designed to function without communication with other devices. An online interactive platform may be a software program or a wireless device application that bi-directionally communicates and logs user actions in a cloud-based server. The platform can include any computer hardware and/or instructions (e.g., software programs), or combinations of software and hardware, configured to perform the functions elaborated herein. In its simplest form, a processor is designed to receive instructions, for example from a memory or a computer-readable medium and utilize the instructions in an executable form to perform one or more processes, including one or more of the processes that are described herein to create the intended objectives of the present invention. Such instructions may be stored and transmitted using a variety of known computer-readable media. Well-known computing devices, as well as those not yet contemplated can be configured to interact with the present platform. Such computing devices can employ any of a number of well-known computer operating systems, including, but not limited to, known versions and/or varieties of Microsoft Windows, LINUX, UNIX, and other operating systems. The transmission of the data in the present platform is designed to be transmitted with timing elements so that users interacting with the system are provided time elements to determine if the media transmitted is received within a certain timeframe of the transmission, such as within minutes, days, or weeks of the actual media transmission.

The platform is accessed and utilized by users who may wish to, for example, promote the user’s personal activities or businesses for other users to see and explore. [0037] One example of a user might be a business, more specifically a restaurant, that wants its location visible and promoted to potential customers. By accessing the specialized platform and making its presence on the platform known, the business can indicate the business’ location on an interactive map, promote specials, promote events, proliferate deals to interested consumers, and display media, such as photos taken by other users depicting user experiences at the business. In an experience, the business user can control the amount of information shared to others by actively or passively participating on the platform. Examples of active participation include real-time modification of content prior to the posting of the event by an upstream user. Passive participation can include preset parameters to avoid the posting of upstream user content that may disparage the user business, such as keyword blocking, blocking of a digital image or icon used to express an idea or emotion (commonly known in the art as an “emoji”), or visual content blocking. Regardless of the user business’ participation, it will be readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that increased use and content can create incentives to users. For example, a business’ consistent use of the application may be rewarded by highlighting the business user’s specific specials or promoting its location on the map through things such as colors, flashing, or musical icons.

[0038] In some embodiments, media shared through the platform can include pictures, videos, text, or recommendations which are published for display to other users. For example, a business may wish to advertise a special event to viewers on the platform by placing a banner with a current picture of the event happening at the place of business. This provides users with a real time visual account of the event. One feature may allow users to transfer user media, such as photos and text, to an external program for printing or saving.

[0039] In another embodiment, a user may be an individual person searching to connect with businesses or other people. Accessing the specialized platform on the user wireless device will provide location-based information on other people and businesses attempting to connect. For example, a user may elect to participate in a feature designed specifically to match single users looking for a date. The feature can be optimized to indicate what businesses are popular or where individuals are located for forming a gathering.

[0040] In some embodiments, optional features exist. For example, users may create a time-sensitive, temporary event or location. This may be used to capture the location and related media for one-night parties, short term fairs, or single night concerts. This feature may also be used by an established business to publicize a one-night event at the user location. Some possible characteristics of these short-term events may be visuals to set the events apart from other businesses, increased visibility to users, or customizing the events to be private for only select, designated users to view.

[0041] Another feature can be a visual symbol indicating the present popularity or foot traffic at a certain location. This indicator will provide real time feedback to potential individuals by tracking users checking in at or entering the business. For example, an establishment specializing in breakfast food will likely read more users checked in during morning hours which will be tracked and recorded on the map for other users to see. In later hours of the day when fewer users are present, the indicator will show a decrease in present customers.

[0042] Popularity of businesses can also be indicated by a real time heat map overlaid on the interactive map. A color gradient correlated with the density of users checked into businesses can visually indicate locations with a high volume of customers. The heat map may update in second, minute, or hour intervals to keep the data recent for platform viewers.

[0043] In another embodiment, the volume of users at a business can also be visualized through a real-time satellite image. An aerial view can provide instant feedback on the number of customers waiting outside a certain business or attendees at a certain event. This view may only be accessible to users of a specific status.

[0044] Y et another optional feature may be for users to indicate on their profile that the user is actively looking to be found by other users. For example, an individual may wish to visit locations in hopes to interact with other anonymous users. The individual can indicate on the user profile that the user would like to be approached by interested parties.

An additional feature of the platform may allow the user to upload a current, time stamped picture of the user, thereby providing identifying information for interested users. Additionally, a user may use this feature to notify others in the user’s social circle of someone the user finds interesting, for example, a user exhibiting certain attractive features. An individual may upload information about someone at the user current location which may interest others in the user’s immediate social circle. This information may also be used to keep information about the clientele at the current business location.

[0045] Individuals are each provided the option of turning off the individual’s location tracking in the event that the user wants the user location maintained as private. The user may still utilize the benefits of the platform, such as seeing the location of other individuals or knowing the popularity of different businesses. [0046] To increase interactions between users and to keep individuals connected, users can create a database of individuals by syncing the contacts saved in the user wireless device. This action will increase current activity contacts on the map for users, as well as keep users connected by showing the locations one or more users frequent. Interacting with specific individuals can automatically allow a tracking feature to initialize to indicate businesses and events the new contact visits. These selective features can be toggled on or off through the settings in the platform or on the wireless device itself.

[0047] To increase interactions between users, the platform may encourage extended or frequent use by both individuals and businesses. To encourage more time on the platform, individuals and businesses may unlock upgraded features after certain criteria are met. Criteria may include paying money directly to the platform, recruiting other individuals or businesses to participate in the platform, or checking in at a qualifying number of businesses within the platform. An example of an upgraded feature may include paying the individual directly for the user’s frequent use of the platform. Another example of an upgraded feature may be providing an individual with a code to receive special attention, expedited access, or exclusive deals at a business. Yet another example of an upgraded feature may include the ability to set favorite users within the platform that would alert of changes or updates occurring to those favorites.

[0048] The interactive platform is stored on one or more local or remotely connected servers or computers and wireless devices. Wireless devices may include mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants, tablets, or any other device that allows users to connect wirelessly to the Internet. A device may include a single user device or multiple user devices wherein the plurality of devices are linked to a network. A device may include, but is not limited to, a wireless computing device, a wireless communication device (e.g., a mobile phone), a portable computing device (e.g., a laptop), a portable communication device, a personal digital assistant, a network connection device, a content recording device (e.g., a camera, audio recorder, video camera), a vehicular computing and/or communication device, or any other device configured to perform one or more of the processes described herein. These wireless devices may be connected to the one or more servers and computers via any wireless or wired LAN system(s), telephone communication networks, satellite networks, cable television networks, the Internet, and/or any other suitable communications network or protocol.

[0049] A communications link may include a wireless communication link such as a cellular telephone link, a wireless Internet link, a wireless network link, or a wireless modem for receiving information from a cloud-based application and one or more third party servers. Servers may operate an online cloud-based application to provide information such as a map or information about restaurants, bars, or other public locations.

[0050] The user device communicates over one or more networks using any communication platforms and technologies suitable for transporting data representative of content and geographic location data. Various communications networks are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art and include known communication technologies and protocols for remote data communications. Some examples include, but are not limited to, Transmission Control Protocol (“TCP”), Internet Protocol (“IP”), File Transfer Protocol (“FTP”), Telnet, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (“HTTP”), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (“HTTPS”), Session Initiation Protocol (“SIP”), Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (“SMTP”), Real-Time Transport Protocol (“RTP”), User Datagram Protocol (“UDP”), Simple Object Access Protocol (“SOAP”), Extensible Mark-up Language (“XML”), Global System for Mobile Communications (“GSM”) communications, Code Division Multiple Access (“CDMA”) communications, Time Division Multiple Access (“TDMA”) technologies, Short Message Service (“SMS”), Multimedia Message Service (“MMS”), radio frequency (“RF”) signaling, signaling system seven (“SS7”) technologies, Ethernet, and other available communications networks and technologies now known as well as those contemplated that can transmit content and geographic location data.

[0051] The communications link is designed to connect a user with other users by facilitating a content aggregation and distribution service wherein a receiving database is capable of receiving communications over a network. The receiving database receives data and, in instances, sends data representative of content, geographic locations, and other communications to and from a content central system. The receiving database can include further functions such as processing, data storage, content management and creation, and location detection. Each of the functions can be implemented as hardware, software instructions embodied in a computer-readable medium, or a combination of hardware and computing instructions configured to perform the processes described herein.

[0052] For example, it is contemplated that the platform described herein interacts with a receiving database to further develop and confirm the content received in an effort to avoid false data input. This function is implemented as a software application embodied on a computer-readable medium at the receiving database and configured to access a user device. Based on the response from the user device, the function evaluates the received data and tags the data according to the response. A series of rules can be formed to evaluate the authenticity of the data and link the processed content to other users.

[0053] The processing function is designed to control and manage the various operations in keeping with the nature of the invention herein. The media received is processed to execute various outcomes. For example, the processing of content can include coding the received content, decoding the received content, parsing content, linking content to other existing content, demodulating the content, and distributing content.

[0054] A management function is designed to provide rules and tools for management of content, including content that has been created or received from a user device. For example, the rules and tools can allow a user device to organize media or similar content for uploading to a receiving database. Tools and rules can also allow the user device of the platform to annotate content. Annotation can include editing, rating, labeling, commenting, blocking, reporting, and categorizing content.

[0055] A location function is designed to create a location tag based on the media received, either based on the input received from the user device or based on certain characteristics of the media received. For example, the location function can be configured to utilize Global Positioning System (“GPS”) technologies to determine the geographic location of the user device according to GPS coordinates.

[0056] Turning to the figures of the present invention, FIG. la and FIG. lb illustrate example user interfaces for an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. An interactive map, which can be real-time, is made available on the online platform which presents one or more businesses 100, individuals 101, and promotions 102 based on location tracking. Indicators show locations of other users, presented as individuals 101 or businesses 100, that are active on the platform. Indicators can be selected to reveal more information about specific users and to provide alerts of the location of each user to other users. For example, the content management and creation and location detection function of the receiving database can be designed to detect and confirm the location of the data received from the plurality of users. This safeguard allows for the presentation of an actual, authentic, and confirmed location. Detection can be configured based on user input such as system user-identified and inputted data that defines the location. Confirmation of location can be configured through the use of a frequency calculator or based on a triggered audit such as an output audit that is designed to cull information for the user device that generates the data received. This can be confirmed by outsourcing data maintained on other servers designed to maintain location data or by culling data maintained by the facilitating service. Further information may include a business address or hours of operation or an individual’s profile with recommendations of establishments to visit. This information can be supplied by a user or supplied by the system by accessing one or more databases known for maintaining such information.

[0057] A user on the platform may wish to narrow the results of indicators on the map based on specific preferences. A tool bar 103 allows a user to search indictors based on criteria such as restaurant, promotion type, geographic location, or like criteria. In addition, tool bar 103 allows for a user-input keyword search. Tool bar 103 can also allow the user to access other users’ information, herein labeled as “Friends” or to simply use the system to define the location of other users. The live map is updated when a user checks into an establishment. This is further useful to the user because it is an alert to any friends who are nearby to stop in and accompany the user. A user can also see where other users may be in the area. This alert can be useful to businesses because the live map allows businesses to alert users of offerings at nearby establishments.

[0058] FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b illustrate example composite images in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. A user may wish to capture a plurality of pictures 201 and videos to display to other users of the platform. This data is captured within a certain time frame, for example 24 hours, then sorted and saved under the user’s Vibes photo repository 200. A user may accompany the pictures 201 with text 202 to indicate the user’s thoughts or feelings about the moment. The images displayed can be restricted by the system to confirm authenticity of the images based on certain parameters, including rules processing. In an embodiment, this function is implemented as a software application. A receiving database is configured to access the user device and, based on the response from user device, evaluate the received data and tag the data based on the response, often based on metadata associated with content. The media received is processed based on a series of rules to evaluate the authenticity and to execute various outcomes. For example, the processing of content can include coding the received content, decoding the received content, parsing content, linking content to other existing content, demodulating the content, and distributing content. In an example experience, a business user can also control the amount of information shared to others by actively or passively participating on the platform. An example of active participation includes real-time modification of content prior to the posting of the event by an upstream user. Passive participation can include preset parameters to avoid the posting of upstream user content that may disparage the user business, such as keyword blocking, blocking of a digital image or icon used to express an idea or emotion (commonly known in the art as an “emoji”), or visual content blocking. While a user can post icons, it is an objective that a user does not present reviews or an advertisement about the place, rather the photos of users are designed to speak to location allowing for authentic representation through visual expression. In another example experience, the system can require that posted image contents are first obtained by the system without allowing access for viewing by the user until the images are posted, thereby furthering the objective of “real” authenticity in providing a real-time, unaltered representation of the event. After posting, the system can allow removal of the images should the user desire.

[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates an example user interface for a list of participating businesses in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. In the displayed example, businesses or locations of interest can be sorted on the platform under the header “Spots”

300. In one embodiment, participating businesses are listed with a short description 301 for users. The location listing can be created by the system in accordance with certain criteria or can be inputted by the business owner or other users. The system can also provide the user with directions to the location or provide a distance parameter for the location - either via walking, vehicle travel, bus travel, train travel, or “as the bird flies.” The system can also include portals to transit systems or related sources to facilitate a user’s travel to the location. Additional details such as proximity 302 or special events may also be indicated in the list. The list provides a plurality of options 303. For example, options can allow the user to save for future reference or to view the pictures 201 or reels associated with the location. The user can place it in the user’s set of favorite locations to allow for repeated posts from the location. The user can also provide an identifying tag to signify liking or disliking the location or providing an accolade or review of the location. In a further example, the platform can facilitate anonymous communications between a user and a merchant via a social networking system.

[0060] FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface for specific business details in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. When selecting a location from the list of Spots 300, further details are displayed. A header 400 with location information is displayed to feed information to the user regarding the offerings at the location. For example, users may be interested in deals 401 or perks relevant to only certain businesses. Users may also be interested in merchandise offered by the venue, and a link may be provided for facilitating a purchase, such as in the form of website link, photo-enabled link such as a QR-code or barcode, or other similar link known in the art. This option may be utilized as advertising for businesses. The user interface may also show pictures 201 specific to businesses, i.e., pictures that were taken by either the businesses themselves or individuals that have attended the locations. Such pictures are verified prior to posting by the system in accordance with the rules parameters disclosed herein. A business may also verify a user by accessing the user profile which provides the user name, an access portal such as a messaging system, user images, connected users, and similar aspects used to identify a user. In the depicted example, the restaurant “Billy Bootleggers” displays the date the facility was established as well as a brief description of the “basement bar.” As shown, the user can elect to follow the Spot as well as save the Spot for future reference. Additional information related to the location can be accessed, and click-through options are provided for Deals including 2-4-1 specials or “skip the line” entrance options. Notably, the system can also record the activities of a user accessing the location via the platform to determine frequency of user interaction to rate locations based on the interaction.

[0061] Further to the interaction described in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, FIG. 5 illustrates an example composite of images for a business in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. Again, following the “Billy Bootleggers” location, a string of images are compiled by date to provide users a snapshot into a specific day at the location. In some embodiments, the users may take as many photos through the user lens without access to the user camera roll for a certain period of time, such as 24 hours, to reinforce the idea that the users are documenting the user activities but not living to document them at that moment the images are captured. The images, videos, and text may be contributed to the repository by either individuals confirmed at the location by the rules parameters system or established by the businesses, also requiring rules authentication in accordance with certain defined rules parameters. Each piece of content in the repository is tagged with the location as defined by the location function of the platform so that it is not duplicated in a photo repository at other businesses. The analysis of the management function of the present system is illustrated in the present figure as each image is chronologically displayed and cropped as necessary to allow for proper viewing within the prescribed image viewing window. Further tools and rules can allow the user device of the platform of the present invention to annotate content.

As shown, annotation can include editing, rating, labeling, commenting, blocking, reporting, and categorizing content. In this figure, annotation of “Show me the way to the next whiskey bar” is depicted in one image while the annotation “Don’t let the b*** ***s get you down” is shown in a second image. In the latter example, rules and tools processing elected to remove an expletive based on defined parameters. This function can be preset by the system or the user, and an override function can also be available to the user. The system can allow users to provide comments to the displayed images. A scrolling function is provided to allow users to pan the posted and managed content. In one embodiment, rules are employed that restrict user reviews or in some instances venue advertisements. Such rules limit a venue profile to only photos or videos of the business that were confirmed to be obtained at the business, thereby presenting an authentic representation of the business.

[0062] Continuing with the illustrated example of FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5, the location function of the system is presented in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface for finding specific businesses on an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. Selecting an indicator on the interactive map will populate a brief business summary 600 for the user about the location. This information is identical to the short description 301 listed under the Spots 300 repository depicted in FIG. 3. In the depicted example, expanded information is presented for “BILLY BOOTLEGGERS,” including price range.

[0063] FIG. 7a and FIG. 7b illustrate an example user interface for interacting with businesses on a map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein and more specifically in FIGs. 3-6. In the present example, the system includes a function to allow a user to add pictures 201 to the user’s personal Vibes photo repository after the rules parameters confirm that the user is checked into the participating location. On the interactive platform map, a screen prompts a user to select an indicator to log pictures in accordance with the management processing function. When a location is selected, the user is checked in and notified via an informational banner 700. The informational banner 700 further provides options to the user available at that location such as notifying other users of the first user’s status or to use the business’ amenities.

[0064] In a practical embodiment of parameters for interaction with the system in accordance with FIGs. 3-7, a first user enters a business. The user accesses the interface to learn of the offerings at the business and capture images of the experience. The user can supplement the images with tags; however, to keep with the authenticity of the images, the user does not see the images the user captures. Within a prescribed period, such as one day, the captured images are displayed in the user’s access portal for viewing by others and include a tag to the business at which the images were captured. Generally, others are users that are linked to the first user, referred to as secondary users. Once secondary users are established, a portal is defined that “unlocks” the business to the secondary users. This unlocked portal allows the business a direct link to the secondary users, allowing the business to flow offerings to the secondary users such as deals, promotions, or advertisements. [0065] Continuing with the functions identified in FIGs. 3-7, FIGs. 8a-8d illustrate an example user interface for adding pictures to businesses on an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. Once checked into a location, a user can utilize the picture capturing function 800 within the platform software. This limited capability function allows a user only to capture a photo at the location selected then immediately post to the Vibes photo repository and Spots repository. In an exemplary embodiment, the user may not alter the photo prior to posting the image, while in alternate embodiments this function may not be available. Preventing the photo from being altered prior to posting is desirable to allow for authenticity of the posting of the information. The interactive map will show that the picture(s) is/are saved to a specific location by placing it on the indicator on the map. A confirmation dialog box 801 prompts the user that one or more pictures have been added to the Spots repository for that business. The user may have the option to take and add as many pictures as desired. The user may also have the option to remove user-posted images after the images are posted. As previously mentioned, annotation function may be available at this stage, either prior to the posting of the image or after the image is posted.

[0066] FIG. 9 illustrates an example user interface for locating users at businesses on an interactive map in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. By selecting an indicator belonging to one or more individuals on the interactive map, a user interface provides further details and options. For example, the individual’s profile picture 902 is located at the checked in location. In another example, business information 900 where the individual is currently checked in is displayed as well as a push option 901 to notify the individual that the user is headed to that location as well.

[0067] FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 illustrate an example user interface for notifications in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. The platform may provide users a plurality of indications and notifications to increase usage on the platform. A user can select and tailor what type of notifications to receive. For example, when businesses create special offers to users on the platform, each user may receive a message indicating this new addition. In another example, once pictures 201 are populated for an individual or a business, users can be notified that the pictures are ready to be viewed. One type of example is a flash deal, hourly specials, special off-menu appetizers, concert tickets, merchandise, exclusive experiences, and similar offerings. In this instance, a partnering venue can interrupt user activity by providing a pop-up notification or flash notification alerting a user to the current deal. Such flash deals can be provided at various increments such as daily or weekly. Deals can also include indicia to allow a user easy access to the deal such as a website link, barcode link, QR code, or other identifying indicia known in the art that allows easy electronic access to the deal.

[0068] FIG. 12 illustrates an example user interface for a personal profile and associated settings in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. Users may adjust setting and preferences, save personal information, and access previously captured pictures and videos. For example, a user may visit specific locations and check in at these businesses on the interactive map. A frequency above a predefined number of visits per month will result in saving the location into a user’s favorite locations list 1200. Additional information can be available to the user including a function to set user settings. Further platform information can be accessible to the user, including, but not limited to, privacy and legal parameters.

[0069] The platform requires certain user input. For example, certain minimal information will be required from a user before the user is able to access the platform or before a user is displayed to other users on the platform. This information, such as username, password, date of birth, or name, may be stored on the server for verification and authentication purposes. User information may also be visible within the personal profile, but may only be visible to the user itself. In one embodiment, a user personal profile is limited to a user photo, name, and a collection of photos or videos obtained from venues confirmed by the platform, thereby verifying the accuracy of the information conveyed by the platform.

[0070] FIG. 13 illustrates an example user interface for selecting available files to view in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. For example, a collection of pictures from a specific time range are sorted and stored under a user’s Reels interface. The interface may allow a user to delete, view, or edit certain collections.

[0071] FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 illustrate examples of composite images for an individual user in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. By selecting one of the Reels from the user interface, the user may view the collection of pictures taken and stored from that time range. The platform can display the user’s collection of pictures and text in different styles, customizable by the user.

[0072] FIG. 16 illustrates an example composite of images for a business in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. Businesses may view the pictures, videos, and text associated with their locations by accessing it through the Reels interface. All the media created by users that were tagged with a business location will be compiled and available for viewing on the business’s interface. [0073] FIG. 17 is a flowchart of an example process for navigating through a user platform and interfaces in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. A user can access the online interactive platform through a wireless device application. Upon opening the application, the user is greeted with a splash screen 1701, allowing time for the app and related sign-in screen 1702 to load. The user will populate the user-specific username and password on the sign-in screen 1702 to generate the specific user profile. If this is the first time a user is utilizing the platform, there will be a series of short dialog boxes or tutorials

1703 to provide the user with basic information on using the platform. For example, the tutorials 1703 may show the user how to access the Vibes repository to take a picture or use the interactive map to begin searching for available locations.

[0074] If the user is not new or has already viewed the tutorials, the home screen

1704 will appear and will provide the user access to the Spots icon 1705, Vibes icon 1706, or the user personal profile icon 1707. Each option directs the user into different screens to perform a plurality of functions. For example, selecting the profile icon 1707 gives the user access to view the user personal photo repository or previously visited locations.

[0075] In another example, the user can select the Vibes icon 1706 providing the user the option to enter the interactive map screen 1708 or view their previous pictures, videos, and text associated with specific businesses 100. In a similar example, the user may select the Spots icon 1705 to enter the interactive map screen 1708 or view a list of available locations to visit.

[0076] The map screen 1708 allows the user to look at other available users with which to interact, such as businesses 100 or individuals 101.

[0077] FIG. 18 represents the infrastructure of the present invention. The interactive platform is stored on one or more local or remotely connected servers 1800, including one or more databases 1806, or computers and user devices 1804. User devices 1804, either connected via wire or wireless, may include mobile phones, Personal Digital Assistants, tablet, or any other device that allows users to connect wirelessly to the Internet. User device 1804 may include a single user device or a multiple user device wherein the plurality of devices are linked to network 1802. Examples of a user device include, but are not limited to, a wireless computing device, a wireless communication device (e.g., a mobile phone), a portable computing device (e.g., a laptop), a portable communication device, a personal digital assistant, a network connection device, a content recording device (e.g., a camera, audio recorder, video camera), a vehicular computing and/or communication device, and any other device configured to perform one or more of the processes described herein. These user devices 1804 may be connected to the one or more servers and computers via any wireless or wired LAN system(s), telephone communication networks, satellite networks, cable television networks, the Internet or any other suitable communications network or protocol. The user devices 1804 are capable of linking to cloud-based applications and one or more third party servers. Servers 1800 may be wirelessly linked to an online cloud-based application such as a map, restaurants, bars, or other public locations.

[0078] The user devices 1804 communicate over one or more networks 1802 using any communication platforms and technologies suitable for transporting data representative of content and geographic location data. Various communications networks 1802 are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art and include known communication technologies and protocols for remote data communications. Some examples include, but are not limited to, CP, IP, FTP, Telnet, HTTP, HTTPS, SIP, SMTP, RTP, UDP, SOAP, XML, GSM communications, CDMA communications, TDMA technologies, SMS, MMS, RF signaling, SS7 technologies, Ethernet, and other available communications networks and technologies now known as well as those contemplated that can transmit content and geographic location data.

[0079] The communications link is designed to connect user devices 1804 with other user devices 1804 by facilitating a content aggregation and distribution service wherein a receiving server 1800 is capable of receiving communications over a network. The receiving server receives data, and in instances, sending data representative of content, geographic locations, and other communications to and from a content central system by using any device, logic, and/or other technologies suitable for transmitting and receiving data representative of content, geographic locations, and other communications. The receiving server 1800 can include further components such as processing node 1810, data storage 1806, content management node 1812, detection node 1808, and location node 1814. Each of the functions can be implemented as hardware, software instructions embodied in a computer- readable medium, or a combination of hardware and computing instructions configured to perform the processes described herein. For example, it is contemplated that the platform described herein interacts with receiving server 1800 to further develop and confirm the content received in an effort to avoid false data input. This function is implemented as a software application embodied on a computer-readable medium at server 1800 and is configured to communicate with user device 1804. Based on the response from user device 1804, the function evaluates the received data and tags the data with identifying indicia based on the response. A series of rules can be formed to evaluate the authenticity of the data and link the processed content to other users. Data storage 1806 maintains content developed by the system and the users interacting with the system as well as user profile and location data. Authenticity is confirmed by detection node 1808, whereby the node first recognizes the existence of a transaction then processes the transaction based on a desired function related to the transaction. Authenticity includes certain parameters such as determining location of the received media by interacting with other processing of the various components of server 1800. The processing function 1810 is designed to control and manage the various operations in keeping with the nature of the principles disclosed herein. The media received is processed to execute various outcomes. For example, the processing of content can include coding the received content, decoding the received content, parsing content, linking content to other existing content, demodulating the content, and distributing content. Management function 1812 is designed to provide rules and tools for management of content, including content that has been created or received from a user device. For example, the rules and tools can allow a user device to organize media or similar content for uploading to a receiving database. Tools and rules can also allow the user device of the platform of the present invention to annotate content. Annotation can include editing, rating, labeling, commenting, blocking, reporting, and categorizing content.

[0080] Location function 1814 is designed to create a location tag based on the media received, either based on the input received from the user device or based on certain characteristics of the media received. For example, the location function can be configured to utilize Global Positioning System (“GPS”) technologies to determine the geographic location of the user device according to GPS coordinates.

[0081] A flowchart of exemplary functions of the platform is presented in FIG. 19. First, a user accesses the platform in step 1900. User authentication is performed by access based on one or more authentication parameters known in the art, including, but not limited to password or biometric recognition such as fingerprint or facial recognition stored either in system databases or user device databases. After authentication, a user uploads media at step 1902. A quality check is performed by the platform at step 1904. The quality check includes either an active confirm 1906 or passive location confirm by periodic triggered audit as previously defined herein. For example, the quality check confirmation of location can be configured through the use of a frequency calculator or based on a triggered audit such as an output audit that is designed to cull information for the user device that generates the data received. This can be confirmed by outsourcing data maintained on other servers designed to maintain location data or by culling data maintained by the facilitating service. Temporary content storage and tagging to user is performed at step 1910. Based on the previous steps and subject to authentication, the media is posted to content storage 1912. The platform next evaluates the authenticated content at step 1914, including tagging the content for identification purposes 1916. The evaluation step of 1914 leads to targeted content distribution at 1918. The system further considers content from other users 1920 as part of its authentication and distribution, looping this function with steps 1914 and 1916.

[0082] A process diagram of the location representing the flow of populating the location information is presented in FIG. 20. In this example, location data is refreshed/looped at sixty second intervals 2012, however, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that any interval can be established, including continuous, while keeping with the principles disclosed herein. Upon user access at step 2000, the user is authenticated. Location data is transmitted by the user at step 2002. The transmission of location data may be supplied by the user device and authenticated at the user device or authenticated by the platform remotely. Once authenticated and processed, the user location is populated on a map of user device 2004 and shared to devices of other defined users. User markers and indicators overlay with user location at step 2006. The map is further populated with other user locations to facilitate the social function of the platform at step 2008. A heat map can be applied based on user location density at step 2010, often indicating a hotspot to the user.

The platform further loops the above-referenced functions and displays updated information to the user while the user device is in use. It is further contemplated that the platform can advise the user of updated information related to the location at times when the user has passive access to the platform, i.e., times when the user is not directly interacting with the platform but is logged into the platform. While not preferred, the platform is capable of notifications even when the user is not logged into the platform.

[0083] A flow diagram of a camera function is presented in FIG. 21. After user access and user authentication, the user accesses the camera function at step 2100. The platform receives user-supplied media from camera device 2102. User edits can be applied at step 2014, including functions such as cropping, annotating, and the addition of expression identifiers such as emojis 2106. The uploaded image is tagged with the location at step 2108 whereby the location is verified by the platform at step 2110. While in certain embodiments the system can automatically post the media, parameters may be set by the platform to allow the user to review and verify that the content is ready to be shared via the platform at step 2112. Once shared, the media is processed to be added to the user profile as well as to the platform for dissemination to other users at step 2114. The media is also tagged to the location profile at step 2114.

[0084] FIG. 22 is a flow diagram depicting user status tracking and enhancement. After user access 2200, a user is authenticated. As part of the authentication, the rules processing of the system evaluates the use of the system to determine user status 2201 based on certain parameters defined by the user. For example, user status parameters 2202 may include payments made by a user to the platform, recruitment, frequent use in the form of user check-ins, or like qualifications. Once a user status 2201 is achieved based on user status parameters 2202, upgraded features are unlocked 2203. The unlocked features can include an ability to set favorites 2204, special access to businesses or events 2205, money directly back to user 2206, or other like benefits common to rewards systems. The upgraded features are likely to result in increased use of the platform by users 2207. It is noted that money directly back to user 2206 can be in the form of direct monetary compensation to the user-defined location such as in the form of check payment to a user, electronic payment to a third-party source, or similar means. It is also contemplated by the present system that a secure payment platform is integrated with the current system to allow for the transfer of funds from the user, to the platform, or directly or indirectly to other users and to businesses.

[0085] FIG. 23 depicts a flow diagram of an exemplary platform in accordance with the principles disclosed herein, operational in a cloud-based software environment. Cloud- based system 2304 exhibits operations of the individuals interacting with the system in the form of user 2302 and venue manager 2306. The platform ecosystem allows the user 2302 to access the application interface 2308 and the venue manager 2306 to access the venue dashboard 2310, with each access portal allowing the user and venue managers to generate the information for other users via the application. Upstream of the access portals is an access programming interface (“API”) 2312 existing in a cloud-based system that allows for the platform to access the operations of the application in cloud platform 2316. For example, in keeping with the objectives of the present system, cloud platform includes functions to allow for custom services 2318, database storage 2320, file storage 2322, user account information 2324, notifications 2326, logging and monitoring 2328, and search 2330.

[0086] FIG. 24 presents further detail of the exemplary platform depicted in FIG. 23. As referenced, cloud-based system 2304 exhibits operations of the individuals interacting with the system in the form of user 2302 and venue manager 2306. The platform ecosystem allows the user 2302 to access the application interface 2308 and the venue manager 2306 to access the venue dashboard 2310, with each access portal allowing the user and venue managers to generate the information for other users via the application. Upstream of the access portals is an access programming interface (“API”) 2312 existing in a cloud-based system that allows for the platform to access the operations of the application in the cloud platform. The content delivery network (“CDN”) 2402 is a cloud-based geographically distributed network of proxy servers and their data centers for providing high availability and performance by distributing the service spatially relative to end users. The CDN delivers Internet content, including web objects (text, graphics and scripts), downloadable objects (media files, software, documents), applications (e-commerce, portals), live streaming media, on-demand streaming media, and social media sites. The function of one exemplary backend as services CDN compatible with the present system is depicted in FIG. 24. It will be readily known to those of ordinary skill in the art that various systems known in the art can accomplish the various tasks in keeping with the teaching of the principles disclosed herein. In the present exemplary system, one CDN that can be employed is commonly known as AWS Amplify, which connects and orchestrates various services allowing for data storage, data management, push notifications, and system integration. As an example, the platform disclosed herein can utilize the AWS S3 2402 for file storage, AWS Cognito 2406 for user and business authentication and authorization with the ability to store, sort, and encrypt data, AWS AppSync 2408 for data storage, AWS ElasticSearch 2410 for geo-specific search of venues, and AWS SNS 2412, as well as other systems, including, but not limited to AWS Cloudfront and AWS CloudWatch for user and business logging and monitoring and content delivery. In addition AWS Lambdas 2414 allows for media processing, photo creation, and create, read, update, and delete functions.

[0087] A further understanding of the objectives of the principles disclosed herein can be obtained from the various functionalities of the venue interface as presented in further detail based on the exemplary screenshots presented in Figs. 25 through 34. The Venue Dashboard is designed as the portal to allow for businesses to access, manage, review, and upload content to the present platform. After login credentials are provided via the LOG IN page depicted in FIG. 25, the platform verifies the credentials. Upon proper verification, the primary Venue Dashboard page is displayed as shown in FIG. 26. In this example, the venue is The Lexington. The Venue Dashboard page includes certain identifying information such as the venue member date, venue address, and venue information, all of which can be edited by the venue by accessing a settings function.

[0088] Three primary functions are also displayed on the Venue Dashboard, including Status, Featured Real, and Gallery. In FIG. 26, Status is accessed, displaying the certain status elements related to the venue, including live and expired promotions. The live promotion is “Come down for happy hour,” and certain expression identifiers are displayed next to the live event. Posting information related to each event is further displayed. An entry window is supplied to allow the venue to supplement the status information with new promotions or offerings. As shown in FIG. 27, the entry window allows the venue user to input written text and further information via a pull-down menu to allow for the creation of additional status information, ultimately for display to users of the platform. The rules and parameters function of the system can prevent the venue user from inputting certain information, such as displaying more than one live event, as shown by the rejection window displayed in FIG. 28.

[0089] Highlighting the Feature Real function on the Venue Dashboard results in the image displayed as FIG. 29. In this stage, the venue user is shown the various current live user videos, referred to as reals, from the past seven days. The first of eight videos shown is hidden based on the rules and parameters of the system, such as a restriction to allow for authentication by the platform or a time-out restriction which keeps videos hidden for a certain period of time. As previously mentioned, this type of restriction may be employed so that the user posting the video can “live in the moment” rather than being concerned with an immediate post and relive the moment at a later time. As shown in FIG. 30, functionality is provided to the venue user to remove videos or view videos from a different time period.

[0090] A third functionality set forth on the Venue Dashboard is Gallery as displayed in FIG. 31. Similar to the Feature Real functionality for the display of uploaded videos, Gallery displays images. In keeping with the authenticity of the present disclosure, the images have been verified as images obtained by the specified venue. As shown in FIGs. 32, 33, and 34, the images of the Gallery can be uploaded, deleted, or replaced by the venue user, and depending on the rules and parameters, images may be altered such as in the form of cropping as shown in FIG. 33. However, it is preferred and in keeping with the principles disclosed herein that image manipulation is limited to keep with the authenticity of the platform.

[0091] FIGs. 35 through 42 depict a user accessing the platform, in this instance via a user device shown in the form of a user cellular telephone screen. While a user cellular telephone is shown, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that access can be obtained through any type of device capable of accessing a social network such a wired or wireless notebook. [0092] A user accessing the platform is first presented with a splash page including a login or signup link as shown in FIG. 35. As part of an authentication process, the application requests that the user enter the user’s telephone number as shown in FIG. 36. Of course, entry can be performed as a result of an automated function known in the art.

Further, it is readily known in the art that other authentication means can be used in keeping with the spirit of the principles disclosed herein, including various biometric authentication functions. Once a telephone number is supplied by the user via a keypad as shown in FIG.

37, a second stage verification is supplied to a user via a code. The code is designed to be supplied in response to a prompt offered by the application as shown in FIG. 38. This authentication can be saved on the user device so that future attempts to access the system do not require multiple authentication stages, wherein on future attempts a user accessing the system is only displayed the splash page including a login or signup link as shown in FIG. 39.

[0093] Once a user addresses the authentication step, a first-time user is presented with the ability to Create Your Profile as shown in FIG. 40. Specifically, a user is presented with a field to enter the user name. Various parameters can be established by the platform to control and authenticate user names and avoid duplication of identities in keeping with the spirit of authenticity of the principles disclosed herein. In addition to a name entry, a user can be instructed to build the user profile by including a photograph as shown in FIG. 41.

This photograph can be obtained in various ways including from images stored within the user device, images stored remote from the device, or by taking a photograph by the device. As shown in FIG. 42, an exemplary user by the name of Tyler Durden has uploaded a photograph.

[0094] Following the exemplary user, Tyler Durden, after the authentication process, a real-time interactive map is shown displaying Tyler Durden’s location as a circle within a ring on FIG. 41. Other users within a determined parameter, either users allowing public access, limited access, or specific access to Tyler Durden, are also shown in the form of user images in circles. In addition, expression identifiers for venues, as discussed in FIG. 26, are shown. Specific venues, namely Sean’s Bar and Karaoke in this example, are also displayed in FIG. 42. This specific venue may be displayed as a result of a search conducted by Tyler Durden, a result of Tyler Durden’s preferred venues, a result of a venue frequented by Tyler Durden’s connected users, a result of the business efforts in the form of offerings or promotions, or other like criteria. While various venues are presented to Tyler Durden in FIG. 43, it is apparent in this figure that Tyler Durden has selected Sean’s Bar and Karaoke which is confirmed by the geo-tracking of the application. At the location, Tyler Durden is presented with a number of opportunities presented by the venue and as shown in FIG. 44, Sean’s Bar and Karaoke tailors its offerings to Tyler Durden based on a request to Tyler Durden. Based on Tyler Durden’s response, Sean’s Bar and Karaoke may present further information such as links to order drinks or purchase merchandise. Tyler Durden can also access further information from Sean’s Bar and Karaoke such as media related to the venue including videos from the prior night, events occurring this month, or even competing advertisements or videos from nearby venues such as the video from the nearby establishment Billy Bootleggers as shown in FIG. 45. Accessing the video from the nearby establishment Billy Bootleggers leads to the image displayed in FIG. 46 whereby Tyler Durden can view a video from Thursday night that was presented by a user named Emily and verified to have been obtained at Billy Bootleggers on Thursday night.

[0095] Further details in accordance with the present disclosure related to Tyler Durden’s user page are depicted in FIGs. 47 through 64. The user page for Tyler Durden is shown in FIG. 47. On this page, Tyler Durden can edit the user profile, view the application privacy policy, or log out. In addition, Tyler Durden can view videos presented as Reals, view his Friends, or view the Venues frequented by Tyler Durden or which have otherwise been saved to Tyler Durden’s profile. For example, the edit profile function is presented in FIG. 48. Accessing the videos presented in Real is depicted in FIG. 49. While current videos are presented in FIG. 49, FIG. 50 shows a video that is hidden based on the parameters set by the application whereby the video will be available for viewing by Tyler Durden and other connected users in 11 hours, 34 minutes, and 07 seconds. In the event Tyler Durden attempts to access the hidden video presented in FIG. 50, a window appears confirming that the video is not yet viewable until the restriction is removed. In the event Tyler Durden has no videos, hidden or visible, the application can display guidance to allow Tyler Durden to create videos as shown in FIG. 52. In the event Tyler Durden selects the Venues link, various venues are presented as depicted in FIG. 53. Similarly, in the event Tyler Durden selects the Friends link, various connected friends are presented as depicted in FIG. 54, as well as an option to search for friends. Tyler Durden can also set certain preferred settings including the examples presented in FIG. 55. Finally, a unique identifying indicia for Tyler Durden, as established by the platform, is presented in FIG. 56. This indicia can allow Tyler Durden to link with other users and/or link with businesses. Upon identification, further interactions can occur such as transferring data between users, making purchases at businesses, or any other like function that requires identity verification. [0096] Additional functions can be performed via Tyler Durden’s profile, including allowing Tyler Durden to access the profile of friends. For example, Tyler Durden can access the profile of Catherine, an individual connected to Tyler Durden, as shown in FIG.

57. Catherine’s status as a friend since June 2020 is presented, and Tyler Durden can access Catherine’s videos. Accessing Catherine’s new video from August 23 results in the image depicted in FIG. 58, showing that Catherine visited Billy Bootleggers on the specified date. Tyler Durden can also enter requests to add friends to Tyler Durden’s profile as shown in FIG. 59, showing pending requests. Adding friends can be performed through a transfer of data related to a user identifying indicia, as shown in FIG. 60, or through searching contacts, as shown in FIG. 61. Location of friends can be presented to Tyler Durden in a map, as shown in FIG. 62, and information specific to a friend on the map can be obtained. For example, Tyler Durden can access one friend, Marla Singer, and determine that Marla Singer is located at The Lexington as shown in FIG. 63. Tyler Durden can contact Marla Singer, and as shown, can inform Marla Singer “I’m on my way.” In the event multiple connected friends are located at a specific venue such as The Lexington, Tyler Durden can notify each friend “I’m on my way,” as shown in FIG. 64.

[0097] Further details related to various venue pages are depicted in FIGs. 65 through 68. General information for the venue Billy Bootleggers is presented in FIG. 65 while specific information for the venue The Lexington, notably in the form of the live promotion “Come down for happy hour... ”, is presented in FIG. 66. Further venue details are presented in FIG. 67 depicting users presently located at the venue The Rose & Crown. Of course, the details for a venue can be tailored as the venue desires, and some venues may limit the information conveyed as noted in FIG. 68 wherein only the name of the venue and associated videos are presented.

[0098] While the present invention is described herein as presented by the various figures, the detailed description is not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of the principles disclosed herein. It will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the spirit of the principles disclosed herein.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. A system for capturing and sharing location-based events comprising: a server including a processor and memory device; a plurality of local and remote communications devices; a plurality of control modules that are operably connected to a cloud-based application; a client device operably connected to the server using a cloud-based server application using at least one of a plurality of communications devices and control modules; a processing node for processing media; a management processor for managing media; a location node; wherein the cloud-based application processes media received from the client device using the server processor; and wherein the processed media is communicated bi-directionally between the sever and the client device.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the server stores user information including personal and contact information, favorite locations, and location details.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the media includes pictures, videos, and text.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the media is sorted according to incoming wireless device location.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of user locations is visually displayed on a map on the online interactive platform.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the locations from a plurality of wireless devices is received and stored in real time.

7. A system for capturing and sharing location-based events, the system comprising: a memory configured to store a plurality of user locations; one or more wireless devices transmitting location; and a server of an online interactive platform.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the server of an online interactive platform stores user information including personal and contact information, favorite locations, and location details.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the media includes pictures, videos, and text.

10. The system of claim 7, wherein the media is sorted according to incoming wireless device location.

11. The system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of user locations is visually displayed on a map on the online interactive platform.

12. The system of claim 7, wherein the locations from a plurality of wireless devices is received and stored in real time.

13. A method for capturing and sharing location-based events, the method comprising: receiving locations from a plurality of wireless devices; receiving media from a plurality of users; and displaying the received locations and media on an online interactive platform.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the media includes pictures, videos, and text.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the media is sorted according to incoming wireless device location.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of user locations is visually displayed on a map on the online interactive platform.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the locations from a plurality of wireless devices is received and stored in real time.