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Meet Wrinkles, an app that uncovers the hidden stories of the places around you
Wrinkles is a new AI-powered app that serves as a location-based audio tour guide, revealing the hidden stories and history of places around you. Founded by David Stemler and Ryan Hansan, it aims to enhance exploration without needing to look at your phone. The app features 1.3 million points of interest worldwide and allows customization for personal memories while staying free for users through partnerships with businesses and creators.
Key points
- Wrinkles app uses location services to provide audio stories about nearby places.
- The app was inspired by a frustrating experience with a self-guided tour app at the British Museum.
- Founders Stemler and Hansan aim to combine curiosity and exploration, not just travel.
- The app includes features for discovering and sharing family and local history.
- Revenue comes from partnerships with museums and businesses rather than users.
- Wrinkles has a database of 1.3 million points of interest across 177 countries.
Why it matters
- Current trends emphasize digital experiences in tourism, aligning with the rise of AR and VR.
- In 2025, the growing focus on experiential and immersive learning is more relevant.
- Apps focusing on localization and community stories enhance user engagement, reflecting changes in consumer preferences.
Wrinkles represents a significant advancement in digital exploration, blending technology and storytelling. By enabling users to connect with their environment and heritage, it fosters a deeper appreciation for the world around them, ultimately transforming how history is experienced in everyday life.