The Secret Power of 'Read It Later' Apps and Social Media Predictions for 2021: Unleashing the Potential of Information Consumption and Community Building

The Secret Power of 'Read It Later' Apps and Social Media Predictions for 2021: Unleashing the Potential of Information Consumption and Community Building

Reading is often described as the closest thing we have to thinking another person's thoughts. It allows us to immerse ourselves in someone else's perspective and expand our own understanding. In today's fast-paced world, the ability to read and consume information effectively has become a valuable competitive advantage.

However, with the constant influx of information and limited attention spans, it has become increasingly challenging to sit quietly and focus for sustained periods of time. Studies have shown that even small changes, like increasing the number of search results per page, can significantly impact our ability to stay engaged. This is where 'Read It Later' apps come in.

These apps, such as Pocket, Evernote, and task managers, offer a solution to the problem of information overload and cognitive dissonance. By saving articles, blog posts, and other long-form content for later consumption, we can create a pool of options to choose from when we have the time and mental capacity to focus. This approach allows us to make decisions from a higher perspective, where our choices are better aligned with what truly matters to us.

But the power of 'Read It Later' apps goes beyond simply managing our reading list. They also enable us to learn faster by assimilating and building on the ideas of others. As the saying goes, "ideas are high leverage agents." By organizing and cross-referencing the information we save, we can create networks of ideas that enhance our understanding and spark new insights.

In a similar vein, social media has transformed the way we connect with others and consume information. Looking ahead to 2021, several trends are expected to shape the social media landscape.

Firstly, there will be an increase in both censorship and less censorship. Platforms like Twitter have faced criticism for their content moderation practices, while alternative platforms like Parler have emerged as havens for free speech. This tension between regulating content and allowing for diverse viewpoints will continue to be a topic of debate.

Secondly, community and commerce will converge. Social media platforms will become more like shopping malls, where users can not only connect with others but also engage in transactions. Communities will empower their members with tools to support impulsive community purchases, blurring the line between social interaction and commerce.

Implicit social networking, where users automatically share information about their location, music preferences, and achievements, will become more prevalent. This shift towards sharing without explicit action will create new opportunities for personalized experiences and targeted advertising.

Additionally, audio social networks will gain traction. Just as Twitter revolutionized short-form text-based communication, there will be platforms that specialize in audio-based interactions. These networks will provide a space for engaging conversations and meaningful connections through voice.

Paying for social media services will also become the norm. With the rise of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, we can expect to see platforms experimenting with adding a crypto layer to their business models. This could involve rewarding users for their contributions or creating exclusive communities that require membership fees.

Finally, virtual hangouts will continue to evolve, with new and innovative ways of connecting with others emerging. As the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual communication tools, we can expect to see platforms that offer unique and immersive experiences for socializing online.

In conclusion, 'Read It Later' apps and the evolving landscape of social media present us with new opportunities for information consumption and community building. By utilizing these tools effectively, we can enhance our learning, stay informed, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace 'Read It Later' apps: Start using apps like Pocket or Evernote to save and organize long-form content for later consumption. This will help you manage information overload and make more deliberate choices about what you read.

• 2. Foster cross-referenced networks of ideas: When saving articles or blog posts, make an effort to organize them in a way that allows for easy cross-referencing. This will help you create connections between different concepts and deepen your understanding.

• 3. Engage in intentional social media use: As social media continues to evolve, be mindful of how you engage with different platforms. Consider the impact of implicit sharing, the value of joining crypto communities, and the potential for virtual hangouts. Choose the platforms and features that align with your goals and values.

By harnessing the power of 'Read It Later' apps and staying informed about the latest trends in social media, we can navigate the digital landscape more effectively and make the most of the opportunities it presents. The ability to consume information and connect with others has never been more important, and by staying adaptable and proactive, we can thrive in this ever-changing world of information and community.