User Guide
Latest Update: We've launched an enhanced real-time messaging system, supporting 24-hour message expiration and geographic range search to provide you with a more immediate and meaningful social experience.
- Location Permission: When using the app for the first time, your browser will request permission to access your location. Please click "Allow" for the application to work properly. Your location information is only used for displaying and publishing messages.
- Create an Account & Sign In: To post messages, you need to create an account. Click the "Sign Up" button on the main page to register. If you already have an account, click "Sign In" to log in.
- View Map: The application will automatically center the map on your current position. You can see all message markers within a 10-kilometer radius on the map.
- Post Messages: Once logged in, enter the content you want to share in the text box on the right panel, then click the "POP" button. Your message will be associated with your current location and visible to nearby users for 24 hours.
- View Messages: The markers on the map and the list on the right will display all messages within a 10-kilometer radius of your current location. The latest messages will be displayed at the top of the list.
- Message Expiration: All messages will automatically expire and be removed from the system 24 hours after posting. Each message displays the remaining valid time.
- Real-time Updates: When you move locations or new messages are posted, the system will automatically update to show messages within range.
- View Details: Click on markers on the map to view the content of messages posted at that location, including the posting time and remaining validity period.
Tip: If you encounter any issues while using the application, you can check the browser console for detailed debugging information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the application need my location permission?
PopAroundMe is a location-based application that needs to access your location to correctly display your position on the map and associate your published messages with your location.
Is my location information safe?
When you post a message, your location information is stored on our server along with the message, but it is only kept for 24 hours. We do not permanently store your location history, nor do we use your location information for purposes other than message posting. We have implemented strict data security measures to ensure your location information is not accessed without authorization.
Why can I only see nearby messages?
PopAroundMe is a location-based social application designed to allow users to view and share messages around specific geographic locations. The system displays all messages within a radius (default 10 kilometers) based on your current location. If you want to view messages in other areas, you can move to that area or adjust the search radius.
Why do my posted messages disappear after a day?
This is a design feature of the application. All messages automatically expire and are deleted from the system 24 hours after posting. This design is similar to the temporary content mechanism of Snapchat or Instagram Stories, aimed at maintaining the freshness and immediacy of content, encouraging users to share current experiences and thoughts.
Do I need an account to use PopAroundMe?
You can browse the map and view messages without an account. However, to post your own messages ("Pops"), you need to sign up and be logged in. This helps maintain a safe and accountable community.
How do I delete messages I've posted?
The current version does not support manually deleting individual messages. All messages will be automatically deleted 24 hours after posting. If you have urgent content that needs to be deleted, please contact the administrator.
Can the application be used offline?
Some features can be used offline, but map loading and location acquisition require an internet connection.
Why are messages sometimes not displayed after sending?
This may be due to location information acquisition failure or incorrect message format. Our latest update has added more robust error handling and data validation mechanisms, greatly reducing the occurrence of such issues. If you still encounter problems, please check the browser console for detailed error information.
Which browsers does the application support?
PopAroundMe supports all modern browsers, including the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. For the best experience, we recommend using the latest version of your browser.
Latest Features
- 24-Hour Message Mechanism: All messages automatically expire 24 hours after posting, maintaining content freshness and immediacy.
- Geographic Range Search: View all messages within a 10-kilometer radius of your current location, with real-time updates.
- Server-side Storage: Securely store messages and location information using Redis database, supporting cross-device access.
- Real-time Message Updates: New messages are immediately visible after posting, supporting dynamic refresh and automatic loading.
- Location Verification System: Optimized location information processing mechanism, ensuring the accuracy and validity of location data.
- Time Display Optimization: Clearly display the posting time and remaining validity period of messages.
Privacy Policy
PopAroundMe respects your privacy. We only collect necessary information to provide services, including your location information and message content when you post messages. This information is stored on our server but is only kept for 24 hours, after which it is automatically deleted. We do not use your data for any other purpose, nor do we share it with third parties. Our latest update further enhances the security and transparency of data processing.