Walkabout – Building a Location-Based Social Platform

Client Website | iOS | Android

Overview:

Walkabout is an innovative mobile application designed to foster real-world connections by encouraging users to check in and hang out together. Built with a strong emphasis on location-based technology, Walkabout enables users to discover nearby friends and events, making it easier than ever to stay socially connected.

As the lead developer on the project, I had the privilege of bringing this vision to life. This case study outlines the challenges we faced, the solutions we implemented, and the final outcome of the app, demonstrating our expertise in building scalable and user-friendly location-based applications.

Challenges

1. Migration to react native for code consolidation

   • The client’s architecture initially leveraged a PWA wrapped inside a native app. The primary goal was to consolidate their mobile development by migrating to React Native, ensuring a unified codebase for both mobile platforms and the PWA.

2. Push Notifications

   • The push notification system was non-functional when I joined the project. Device tokens were not being captured correctly on the React Native side, and the iOS notification layer was broken.

3. Real-Time Location Accuracy:

   • The client sought to implement precise real-time location tracking using the React Native Real-Time Geo-Location package. This functionality was partially implemented when I inherited the project and required significant improvement to meet production standards.

4. Deep Links:

   • Ensuring seamless navigation and integration of deep links across the app was a critical requirement, as the app’s usability depended on smooth linking between features and external content.

Solutions

1.Migrating a project to react native

For the Walkabout migration, we adopted a phased approach. First, we fixed critical issues in the existing native app for both Android and iOS, ensuring users could continue utilizing the app. Once stabilized, we initiated the migration to React Native, consolidating the codebase without disrupting user experience.

2. Allowing users to receive push notifications

I began by addressing the iOS notification layer, fixing the broken implementation with the help of external tools like GPT for guidance. Next, I implemented accurate permissions and device token fetching on the React Native side using Expo. Finally, I recommended and implemented analytics for push notifications, allowing the client to track opens, impressions, and engagement—critical data for evaluating feature performance.

3. Tracking my location for testing purposes and checking in to a coffee shop 32 times

To enhance the real-time location feature, I conducted extensive testing, including checking into a coffee shop 32 times to fine-tune accuracy. The work involved troubleshooting edge cases and improving the React Native Real-Time Geo-Location package integration. This effort culminated in a robust and bug-free feature ready for production.

4. Deep Links

Collaborating with UI/UX designers, I integrated deep link support to ensure seamless navigation within the app. This feature enhanced user experience by enabling quick access to specific screens and content, improving overall engagement.

Results

• Successful Launch: Walkabout launched successfully and is currently undergoing a second round of funding.
• Push Notification Analytics: Push notifications now have detailed analytics, enabling the client to track user engagement for the first time.
• Enhanced Real-Time Location Tracking: While the location tracking feature is not yet live in production, the client now has a fully tested and implemented solution ready for future use.

Why Choose Us for Your Location-Based App

Our expertise in building Walkabout showcases our ability to deliver innovative, scalable, and user-friendly location-based applications. Whether you’re looking to build an app for social connections, logistics, or any other industry requiring real-time location tracking, we have the technical know-how and creative vision to bring your idea to life.

Ready to bring your location-based app idea to life? Contact Us Today to discuss your project.