Facebook is testing a new feature on Facebook events where users would be able to check-in to events that they had RSVP-ed. The testing development was first reported by AllFacebook through a screenshot. This screenshot was taken through an iPhone device.
In the screenshot, a user has the option to check-in to the event and also RSVP it accordingly. Further they say, the check-in icon will be available only on the day of the event and if you happen to be geographically close to the event venue.
In response to the story Facebook spokesperson said:
We’re currently testing this and it will be available with the next iPhone release.
Last week, Facebook Places had become operational in India. The service was launched in August 2010 for United States and a few other countries. Initially, the service is going to be made available on the iPhone application and on touch.facebook.com . It would come to the Android app at a later stage.
Where can it benefit?
- It would help event organisers in promoting the event. Attendees of the event would most likely share their check-in with their Facebook friends which would help gain eyeballs for the event and possibly pull more visitors.
- Event organisers could also see the number of people attending if all of them check-in or are required to check-in.
- People who have checked-in at the event can message each other to connect and build a network.
- Pictures could be shared to the event page itself – Users who are checked-in to the event can share pictures in realtime with not only their friends but also on the event page. It could quite possibly kill the competition from Twitter which is dominant when it comes to live updates of an event.
- Raffle competition – Many events give away prizes and gifts based on a raffle system, this could possibly be replaced with gifts going to those who are checked-in via Facebook. Additionally, the event page could tag the recipient of the prize along with their image/video which helps in being made visible to a wider audience.
What are the other marketing opportunities? Please share your thoughts.