The application offers several services. For example, CheckMy!Musicien lets users notify all network members where the best accordionists, guitarists and other choirs pacing the corridors of the Parisian underground or RER are to be found. Along the same principle, the application offers “CheckMy!Graffiti “ for the best tags and “CheckMy!Pub” for unusual advertising adorning the walls of stations.
CheckMy!CoupdeGueule (CheckMy!Rant) gives users an area in which to share their irritation about a crowded line, a closed station or an unpleasant passenger.
Conversely, for those users wishing to do so, it will also be possible to rejoice in having found a seat or in remarking that their station has been renovated on time and tastefully, thanks to “CheckMy!CoupdeCoeur” (CheckMy!Favourite). The team that created the application, led by Benjamin Suchar, who used to work in finance, has already mentioned the possibility of adding a chat function that would put “Checkers“ in contact with each other in order to converse, live, about transport conditions.
Tickets please
The service that is causing controversy is “CheckMy!ControlR”. For the creators of the application, this service has the simple aim of telling people at which stations RATP inspectors are. The members of the network could, as with musicians, “check” on a real-time map to show where the inspectors are on the network. Obviously, this opportunity is a way for fare evaders to avoid being caught.
However, just like applications that warn motorists about the presence of fixed or mobile speed cameras, “CheckMy !ControlR” is not calling for fraud and even forewarns that every passenger must have a ticket in order to travel.
At launch, the first 10,000 downloads will be free, which should be enough to build a solid base for the community. Henceforth, the application will cost €1.79 (about £1.50). If it’s successful, the “CheckMy!Metro” team wants to develop the application on other platforms than the iPhone, and would even consider targeting other towns in France and abroad. The application is currently being validated by Apple.
