Google’s new social network ‘Shoelace’ aims to help people connect offline

Google is taking another shot at building a social networking platform. The Area 120 unit, Google’s in-house team for experimental products, has developed a new social networking platform called Shoelace. The app focuses on helping people engage in real life.

Similar to interest-based match making apps, Google’s Shoelace encourages users to connect with shared interests through in person activities. For instance, people who have moved to a new city and are looking to make new friends who live nearby can use Shoelace.

Google is also addressing privacy concerns beforehand. “After installing the app, we ask each user to join a community– which often require verification– to ensure you only attend Loops with people you might want to know.