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Expat Tech: Foursquare Comes to Buenos Aires

I guess it’s relatively fitting that my first new post to the blog in awhile covers something near and dear to my heart — technology.

Yesterday, Foursquare launched in 50 additional cities, and yes, Buenos Aires was one of them.

What is Foursquare you ask? Well, in addition to being one of the most hyped new companies of the year, they also are a location based social network that incorporates social elements. They have a free iPhone and Android app (Blackberry coming) that allows you to “check in” from places that you are at (bars, restaurants, etc). When you check in, Foursquare will tell your friends where you are and also recommend nearby places. You can leave tips on the place you’re at and also view tips from your friends. You also earn points and badges for checking in which can allow you to become the “mayor” of a place and unlock additional freebies. You can read all the details here.

Buenos Aires is still pretty sparsely populated, so download it now and give it a try. It’s pretty cool.

Disappointed

By DaVe McComb on in Randomness

The one major disappointment that I have about moving to Buenos Aires is that I was not able to rush out today and wait in line with everyone else to get the newest iPhone 3G. I had to read all the blogs about it and all the great new software they have for it, and realize it may be some time before I have one of my own. While the iPhone is scheduled for release in Argentina, the release date on the Apple web site simply says “Coming Soon.” Plus, it will probably require a contract and a CDI number, which I will most likely not have.

I guessed the techie in me would have to be put on hold for awhile, but to help placate myself, I did try and buy a used Blackberry Pearl 8120 from someone on Craigslist. Unfortunately, after agreeing on the price and a place to meet, he later emailed saying he found another buyer closer to him and that the phone was sold. Nice way to do business, huh? That made not getting the iPhone even more disappointing.

UPDATE (8.22.08): The iPhone has arrived in Buenos Aires! The Argentine Post has an article about the iPhone’s arrival, cost and various service plan options. Unfortunately, I do not have a DNI number so I cannot get a plan. I’m going to have to stick with my pre-paid phone.

UPDATE (5.9.09): Should be getting an iPhone this week thanks to my friend letting me use his company account to sign up! Can’t wait!