Mesh, the relationship-management platform owned by Automattic, is expanding beyond iPhone users with the launch of its Android app. The service is designed to help people organize their personal and professional networks, keep useful notes about contacts, and remember when it may be time to reconnect with someone.
The Android version has been built specifically around Google’s mobile platform. Users can take advantage of split-screen and pop-up modes, making it possible to keep Mesh open while checking email, messages, or other applications. The app also supports tablets and foldable phones, along with keyboard shortcuts, in-app search and customizable home-screen widgets.
Mesh also keeps information synchronized across devices in real time, making it easier for users to maintain a single view of their contacts regardless of which device they are using.
More Than a Contact List
Mesh positions itself as a private relationship-management tool rather than a conventional address book. Users can visualize connections across their networks, add context to individual contacts and set reminders to stay in touch.
The company is also exploring a closer relationship between Mesh and Beeper, another Automattic-owned product that brings conversations from services such as WhatsApp, Signal, Instagram, Messenger, LinkedIn, Slack and Discord into one place.
The two services already have some basic integration. Mesh users can draft messages through Beeper or jump directly to a contact’s Mesh profile. Automattic is considering deeper connections between the products, including AI-powered tools that could make managing large networks easier.
AI Takes a Bigger Role
Mesh’s Nexus AI is currently available through early access. It allows users to ask questions about their networks, such as which contacts work at a particular company, who lives in a certain location or who might have knowledge about a specific subject.
The company is also experimenting with voice-based interaction and improvements to its business-card scanning technology.
Privacy remains a major part of Mesh’s approach. The company says information stored in the service isn’t used for advertising or targeted marketing. Instead, Mesh operates on a subscription model. Users can manage up to 1,000 contacts for free, while paid plans provide access to larger networks and additional capabilities.
Business Users Lead Adoption
Although Mesh is intended for both personal and professional relationships, business users currently represent roughly 70% of its customer base. The company sees particular value for executives, team leaders and professionals who need to maintain relationships with large numbers of people.
Mesh’s Android app is available as a free download for phones, tablets and foldable devices, with optional in-app purchases. The company is also leaving the door open to future subscription bundles involving Mesh, Beeper and other Automattic products.
