The Idea Behind Wrinkles
The inspiration for Wrinkles came to David Stemler during a visit to the British Museum in London. Frustrated by having to constantly check his phone while using the museum's app, he envisioned a more seamless way to learn about one's surroundings. "If the phone in my pocket knows exactly where I am, shouldn’t the places in front of me be able to speak?" Stemler pondered. This idea laid the foundation for Wrinkles, which allows users to engage with their environment naturally and intuitively.
The app's content spans 1.3 million points of interest across 177 countries, offering a global tapestry of stories. Historians, museums, and creators can contribute to the platform, enriching it with personalized experiences and narratives. Wrinkles allows users to explore these stories in real-time as they move or remotely via its interactive map.
Interactive Exploration and Social Features
Wrinkles enhances user interaction by allowing them to ask questions during their exploration. For example, while learning about Rome's Trevi Fountain, you might inquire about the origins of its water. This feature makes the experience more dynamic and engaging, similar to having a personal guide by your side.
The app also incorporates social elements, enabling users to follow friends, family, and creators. Users can save and share their favorite Wrinkles or even organize them into custom maps and guides. Personalization is a key component, as users can attach personal memories, photos, and recordings to specific locations, creating a collaborative family history that can be cherished and preserved.
Beyond Travel: Everyday Curiosity
While Wrinkles is a boon for travelers, it is equally valuable for those exploring their own backyards. Co-founder Ryan Hansan emphasizes that "the common thread isn’t travel — it’s curiosity." The app offers insights into the everyday environments people pass through, from the commute to work to a stroll in the park.
Wrinkles aims to be more than a travel app; it is a tool for continuous learning and rediscovery. Whether you are uncovering the history of your hometown or planning a trip abroad, Wrinkles offers a new perspective on the world around you.
"Wrinkles transforms how we perceive our surroundings, turning ordinary places into stories waiting to be told."
— David Stemler, Co-founder
Business Model and Future Vision
Despite experimenting with a freemium model, Wrinkles remains committed to offering a free service for users. The app's revenue is generated from partnerships with museums, tourism boards, and businesses that leverage Wrinkles to create location-based experiences. These partners can build sponsored guides and promote Wrinkles related to their locations, with the app earning a share of transactions made through its platform.
Looking ahead, Stemler and Hansan envision Wrinkles as an integral part of how people navigate and engage with places, whether discovering the historical significance of a college campus or exploring a new city for the first time. This vision aligns with the growing trend of AI tools enhancing everyday life, making them essential companions in our digital age.