Path Review

Consistently one of the most popular social networking apps on the App Store, Path is a well made and attractive solution for those wanting to get in touch with friends and family solely through an iOS device. Unlike services such as Facebook, Path is purely an app with no web-based interface in sight.

This brings with it some added flexibility for the service. Most notably, everything has been designed with a phone in mind. It's possible to import contacts from the Contacts list as well as through Facebook, although it's not possible to find friends through Twitter. It's an attractive layout too, with everything available from the one screen.

Users can share what they're up to and their thoughts, but they can also add films, music and books that they're currently reading, as well as rely on Path to update users on where they've travelled to automatically. It's even possible to hit a button to show that one is asleep or just risen, although, admittedly, I'm not entirely sure why I'd care when a friend has just woken up. More regular features such as photo uploading and filtering is also available, and works smoothly.

Throughout, it's a fast service that's easy to update that likes to focus on the many moments that occur throughout one's life. This is reflected in its search bar which looks through the memories and tags of one's life. Detailed integration with other major networks such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Foursquare mean that everything can be connected and shared to an extent.

As a fairly private network, users can easily private message their friends or family, as well as add fun stickers (for a price) to the conversation, as well as all the other content that Path offers. It's a slick service all round.

There's that sense that Path is combining the best elements of many other social networks, but it's working well. Unfortunately, few of my friends are using it thanks to the behemoth of Facebook, but with cross-posting support, there's certainly the chance of Path expanding more and more. In some areas, it feels a much more rounded and simpler service than anything else. It's well worth a look for those looking for a more phone focused social network.