The key ability here is ability to post outside of Microsoft's network and to those alternative properties, because truth be told that is where all the action It's worth noting that you can sign in with either your Microsoft account or your Facebook account when you start the app.
The app allows you to browse through the global timeline of posts on Socl, as well as a timeline of your friends. Here you can see the text, images, and animated gifs, they have shared. You can leave comments, show your support, or add the media to your own personal 'collection'. You can also create your own posts, which could range from single pictures and collages of images, to animated gifs (using Microsoft's Blink tool) and Picotale (a way to overlay text on images using standard 'meme' methodology).
I'm still not quite sure why Microsoft, who have rather a lot invested in Windows Phone, have decided to ditch the Windows Phone Design Language in their own application and replicate a poor man's Instagram client. Mind you, most of Socl feels like Microsoft trying out some ideas on a public server, rather than a mature social network. That's not to say there's no value here, but I'm glad that the app breaks out of Socl and reaches networks which have a significant user base.
The main features, as listed in the app directory, are:
- Create beautiful collages and funny memes in seconds.
- Share your creations on Socl, as well as your other favorite social networks.
- Create visual responses ("riffs") to existing content.
- Snap a picture and share it on Socl.
- Receive notifications about community activity on the content you love.
- Organize the content you love in collections.
- Connect with new and interesting people worldwide.
Socl (pronounced 'social') is a free download from the Windows Phone store, and is available now.