Exclusivity is no longer limited to hotshot events and top-notch concierge companies. From smartphones to social networks, everyday tech services are becoming invite-only. Here, check out the ones worth the pre-screening process.
Ello
If you’re getting sick of the creepy personalized ads that clutter your Facebook newsfeed, it might be time to switch over to Ello, the new ad-free social network. Ello doesn’t sell ad space or allow companies to access your search habits. Their reasoning? It’s tacky—simple as that. To join Ello, you need to know someone that is already on the network or request an invitation.
Google Inbox
The new email app from Google, available on smartphones, tablets and desktops, keeps your mail more neatly organized, allows you to get important info without opening an email and reminds of you correspondence that you flagged to check out later. The catch? You have to request an invite from Google to get access.
OnePlus
This smartphone boldly claims to be better than both iPhones and Androids. With a powerful processor, an immersive 5.5-inch 1080 pixel display and a 13 megapixel Sony camera, this cell is intended to be prettier, stronger and sharper than any others on the market. To buy one, you have to be invited by a friend.
Amazon Echo
Amazon’s latest innovation comes in the form of a 9-inch cylinder that acts as a mini personal assistant. The device is always on and responds when you say its name (either Amazon or Alexa, your choice) and can look up anything, play music, create to-do lists and sync to other devices. But first, you have to ask Amazon for an invitation to buy it.
The League
The new trend in online dating is invite-only apps and websites, and singles all over the world are loving the selectivity. This one keeps a database of well-educated and ambitious professionals. To get an invite, you have to apply and allow access to your Facebook and LinkedIn profiles. The only thing standing in your way is the current waitlist of 75,000 people.
