Social networks have been all the rage in recent years with Facebook taking on over a billion earthlings to become the largest. With so many social networks available to choose from what chance does a newcomer have?
Here’s a quick look at Macprofile, a new social service built for Mac users. I’m not sure the world needs yet another social network, but, hey; different strokes for different folks, and it’s possible there are enough Mac users who need to hang out that Macprofile could catch on. Maybe.
Signing up to use Macprofile is simple enough. Create a user name, add your email, enter a password, fill out the personal information, and you’re in. Your Macprofile experience begins with the Dashboard and control menus for Mac Users, Q&A, Photos, Groups, Events, Support, and About. You’re even allowed to have a profile avatar (choose wisely).
Macprofile has user groups, too, including one for Mac Servers (8 members), xScan users, Seattle Mac users, and Victoria, BC Mac users, so this Portland, OR-based service has a decidedly Northwest feel to it.
The social network is so new you’ll find it mostly sparse with little activity. Even the Q&A section was empty (as of June 30). Macprofile’s objective as a social network is obvious; improve knowledge and enjoyment of the Mac, so, as the community grows you may meet others from around the world, make a few friends, learn by asking and sharing.
As yet another social network for Apple’s customers I wish the folks at Macprofile well, and hope they grow enough to become a viable resource for Mac information and sharing, but I wonder how a new venture like this can succeed when the online scene is swimming with social connections; Mac forums have been around for years and most struggle to make it through a month in an era when advertising revenue is dropping due to horrific competition, ad blockers, and fickle users who bounce from one online location to another.
Even the name ‘Macprofile’ seems innocuous and not memorable (MacCity? MacTreehouse?). There’s little to differentiate Macprofile from other online networks and digital social gathering holes.