LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — Sometimes places can be too packed for your pandemic comfort level, but now you have access to an advance scout in your pocket. 13 Action News Anchor Tricia Kean tells us about a new app that helps you avoid the crowds and stay safe.
UNDERSTAND WHEN IT'S SAFE
"This is brilliant," said Amanda Signorelli. She just downloaded NowCrowd.
The app just launched exclusively in Las Vegas and is designed to show you how crowded a business is before you even get there.
"The first thing I thought when I heard about the app was, 'this would be critical for grocery shopping,'" she said. "I feel like I spent a lot of time, especially in the early days of the pandemic, trying to understand when it was going to be safe to go."
But Signorelli says that's not an issue anymore.
REAL-TIME INFORMATION
"I think it's been pretty accurate," said Signorelli.
The app provides real-time information on crowd sizes based on information posted by users. When you get somewhere, you simply check in on the app.
"There's a binoculars button on the app. You click that, it gives you three options: Not Crowded, Somewhat Crowded, Crowded," said app Co-Founder Tyler Robertson.
STORIES LIVE FOR 2 HOURS
He says users can then post a "story" in the form of a picture or video showing how busy it is.
"We know the nature of crowds, ebbs and flows. So the stories are live for two hours and then they disappear," explained Robertson.
Users can search for specific businesses considered "not crowded," like grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants and even tourist attractions.
The app also provides directions to those spots and approximate wait times. Robertson believes the app is a great tool for locals and tourists.
TOOL FOR TOURISM
"We're actually in contact with local government," said Robertson.
"We're in contact with some of the casino owners to help facilitate this particular tool for tourism," he added.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, Signorelli says the app helps, and she recommends giving NowCrowd a try before going grocery shopping.
"I try to tap in and look at whether or not I'm going at the right time," she said. "I've also started officially going out more than I used to because I feel like there's an easier way with something like this app."
NowCrowd is available to download for free on all iOS and Android devices.
To learn more or to download it visit NowCrowd.app.
