Lost Post

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Lost Post is an iOS-exclusive (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Vision) social networking application categorized under "Photo & Video" and "Social Networking." It facilitates anonymous, global micro-storytelling through a structured daily prompt system.
2. Core Value Proposition: It solves digital isolation by enabling users to share personal reflections anonymously via virtual postcards daily and receive a unique global perspective in return, fostering unexpected human connection across geographical boundaries.

Main Features

1. Daily Anonymous Postcard Exchange:
   • How it works: Users receive one curated question (prompt) daily. They craft a text-based response, customize a virtual postcard (colors, patterns), and "send" it into the global system. The next day, they anonymously receive one postcard containing another user's response to the same prompt from anywhere on Earth.
   • Technology: Utilizes a randomized, anonymized global matching algorithm ensuring sender-recipient anonymity and geographical diversity. Data (User ID, Device ID) is linked for core functionality but dissociated from specific postcard content during transmission.
2. Global Stamp Collection Passport:
   • How it works: Each received postcard includes a virtual stamp representing the sender's country. Users accumulate these stamps in an in-app "passport," visually tracking the diversity of global voices they've connected with.
   • Technology: Leverages coarse location data (country-level, not precise GPS) linked to the sender's device solely for generating the country stamp. This data is not displayed to the recipient until after the postcard is received.
3. Postcard Customization & Reaction System:
   • How it works: Users personalize outgoing postcards by selecting background colors, patterns, and virtual stamp designs. Upon receiving a postcard, users can send quick, pre-defined reactions (e.g., icons) to anonymously acknowledge the sender, confirming their message was received and appreciated.
   • Technology: Customization tools use client-side rendering. Reaction data (linked via User ID/Device ID) is minimal and processed to trigger a notification to the original sender without revealing the reactor's identity or location.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Addresses the desire for authentic, low-pressure global connection and serendipitous discovery of diverse perspectives, countering algorithm-driven social media fatigue and superficial interactions.
2. Target Audience:
   • Curious individuals seeking authentic global perspectives.
   • Reflective users interested in daily journaling or micro-blogging with an audience.
   • Travel enthusiasts and cultural explorers unable to physically travel.
   • Individuals seeking anonymous, judgment-free sharing.
3. Use Cases:
   • Gaining daily cultural insight through unfiltered personal stories worldwide.
   • Practicing concise self-expression within a structured, low-commitment format.
   • Building a visual collection (stamp passport) representing global reach.
   • Experiencing the serendipity of anonymous, positive digital interaction.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike broad social networks (Facebook, Twitter) or direct messaging apps, Lost Post enforces brevity (one prompt/day), guarantees anonymity in exchanges, and focuses solely on sharing thoughtful reflections with a single, globally diverse stranger daily. It differs from penpal apps by being asynchronous, anonymous, and prompt-driven.
2. Key Innovation: The "one prompt, one exchange per day" model creates anticipation and reduces overwhelm. The combination of anonymous global matching, tangible country stamp collection, and minimalist reaction system fosters a unique sense of connected discovery without the pressure of reciprocal conversation or public profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Lost Post really anonymous?
   Yes, Lost Post is designed for anonymity. While the app links technical identifiers (User ID, Device ID) and coarse location (country) to your account for core functionality and stamp generation, your identity (name, email, exact location) is never shared with the recipient of your postcard, nor is the sender's identity revealed to you. Reactions are also sent anonymously.
2. Can I use Lost Post on Android or the Web?
   No, Lost Post is currently only available as a native application for Apple platforms: iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro (requires iOS 26.0+, macOS 26.0+ with Apple Silicon, visionOS 26.0+). There is no Android or web version at this time.
3. What kind of data does Lost Post collect?
   According to its privacy policy (Daydrift B.V.), data linked to your identity includes Contact Info (Name, Email Address - likely for account/customer support), Coarse Location (Country), User Content (your postcards, support messages), and Identifiers (User ID, Device ID). Data not linked includes Usage Data and Diagnostics. Location is used for country stamps and potentially app functionality.
4. What are the in-app purchases in Lost Post?
   Lost Post offers a "Launch Bundle" priced at $3.99 or $4.99 (likely regional variations). The description doesn't detail the bundle contents, but common purchases in such apps include premium customization options (exclusive patterns, stamps, colors) or features like viewing additional past prompts.
5. How does the global stamp collection work?
   Each postcard you receive comes with a virtual stamp representing the sender's country. This country is determined solely by the coarse location (country-level) of the sender's device at the time of sending. You collect these stamps in your in-app "passport," visually cataloging the different countries from which you've received anonymous stories.