Chatter site offers niche social networking

by Jennifer Whitehead, Brand Republic 09-Apr-09, 11:30

LONDON - A network of social networks has launched with the aim of creating dozens of niche communities connecting people with similar interests or professions.

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Chatter has already signed up 60,000 members ahead of its formal launch this week, and has more than 100 niche networks. These include sites for cat- and dog-lovers, fans of cricket and darts, butterfly collectors, poetry lovers and those working in telecoms and engineering, to name a few.

With the successes of MySpace, Facebook and most recently Twitter, the hunt is on for the next big thing in social networking, and Chatter's founders believe that niche networking will attract people who want to keep their interest as the main point of their networking, rather than being targeted with unnecessary applications and content.

Ian Johnson, director of Chatter, said: "Chatter allows members to connect with likeminded people, and bring their hobby or interest to the forefront of their online social experience.

"We're trying to help organise the networking space, helping members find and engage with new people who share the same passions."

It hopes to appeal to advertisers by delivering an audience that is targeted, cutting down on waste.