Google Task Mate, a gig orientated application, is in beta testing across a few select locations. The app connects available tasks with willing workers. Jobs include tasks such as taking pictures of restaurants, storefronts or birds at a given location or completing surveys in return for a monetary reward.
Currently, the app has undergone rigorous testing in Kenya, where it has proved to be a resounding success. Right now, you need a referral code to sign up for Google Task Mate. However, Google is planning to expand the service internationally with a view to rolling out in 3rd world countries such as Africa & India. The app has already had over a million downloads on the Play Store
However, once Google Task Mate becomes widely available potential users can download the app from the Google Play Store & get paid if they complete tasks accurately & then they can withdraw earnings by connecting their e-wallet or bank account to the app. Google has a detailed FAQ on offer to answer the most prevalent concerns & repeated questions that users have while using their app. Interestingly, one of the points discussed is “task availability” with Google admitting that their app is so busy that users might have to reload & refresh the app several times just to view tasks, which stubbornly won’t open due to high traffic issues.
All users on the app are subject to a rating system, called “Leveling”, which offers them the opportunity to increase their earning power. Accuracy in completing tasks is the leveler by which users are scored. Each task completed is rated on a 5 star basis with 1 star given to users who score 70% or less; ratings are given by peers using the app & task reviewers. After completing a set number of task, users move up in the ranks, which range from Bronze to Platinum across 4 levels with users who attain Platinum status (1000 tasks completed, with an accuracy level of 5 stars) given privileges that include:
- Earliest access to tasks
- Highest task limit
- Ability to refer other users to Task Mate
Google’s drive to provide better services for Africans, in particular, but the third world in general, not only includes Task Mate, but various products & services that form part of a much broader incentive & include a new undersea fibre cable called Equiano, that will connect Africa with Europe & speed up Internet connectivity by as much as 300% & a $1 billion fund, which will be distributed over the next five years to ensure faster, cheaper Internet across Africa with better inclusion rates.
Kenya was part of an experiment in Africa to test Google Task Mate in action, but now Google plans to launch the app in countries across the continent. The app is available in India as well, where it’s also in the pilot stage.
Image credit: Google
