How Now Works
Now, an iPhone app, transforms the way users discover local events by tapping into Instagram’s real-time data. Unlike other location-based apps that overload you with pings when acquaintances are nearby, Now delivers smarter, context-rich notifications based on trending experiences in your area. Instead of alerting you when someone checks in at a pharmacy or walks past your old college roommate, it focuses on what really matters—cool things happening around you.
What makes Now stand out? It identifies popular locations by monitoring where the most Instagram photos are being taken at any given moment. When one of your friends posts from a buzzing spot, Now sends you a timely notification, giving you a chance to join in or check it out for yourself. Want to know what’s trending in your city right now? Follow the photo trail.
“If you want to know what’s happening in your city, go where people are taking the most photos.” — Ben Broca, Founder
For example, when a friend recently snapped a shot of an upside-down car on a film set for The Amazing Spider-Man 2, Now alerted me immediately. Even better, it compiled related photos tagged at that same location, offering a fuller picture of the scene from multiple angles.
This intelligent aggregation of social content adds context that Instagram alone doesn’t provide. Instead of scrolling aimlessly, Now helps you experience your city in real time—through the lens of what’s visually and socially trending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now is an iPhone app that uses Instagram’s real-time photo data to notify you about trending events and locations nearby, focusing on socially engaging experiences.
Unlike apps that notify you about nearby acquaintances, Now focuses on trending locations based on Instagram photo activity, providing context-rich notifications for exciting events.
Currently, Now is only available for iPhone. Check the App Store for updates on future Android releases.
Yes, Now integrates with Instagram to track photo activity and deliver notifications, so an Instagram account is required to use the app.
Conclusion
The Now app redefines how you discover local events by leveraging Instagram’s real-time photo data to highlight trending hotspots. Its smart notifications and aggregated content provide a unique, context-driven experience, making it easier to stay connected to the pulse of your city. Whether it’s a film set or a pop-up event, Now ensures you never miss out on what’s happening nearby.