Drippler, the iOS and Android app that delivers news about your smartphone and recommends new apps, has raised a $4.5 million Series A round.
Backing comes from Titanium Investments, who led the round, along with participation from TMT Investments, iAngels, Reuven Agassi, Yanki Margalit, David Assia, Christian Gaiser and other private investors.
Describing the Drippler app as a “techy concierge,” it offers personalized recommendations on apps, features, and accessories to help you get more out of your current smartphone.
This includes a news aggregator element, pulling in news about your specific smartphone model or its wider operating system, in addition to sending you notifications on a daily basis with tips, advice (such as how to improve your phone’s battery life), and relevant apps based on your personal preferences.
The latter is also the basis for the Israeli startup’s business model. “Drippler helps mobile users make the most of their devices and apps, while helping tech brands and developers reach their target audiences,” says Drippler CEO Matan Talmi.
“The average user wants to use his device to its full potential but has a hard time keeping track of all the new tech developments. We provide users with relevant updates, on topics and devices that are relevant to them.”
It’s in Drippler’s claimed relevancy of its content that lies its monetisation strategy. It connects advertisers — app developers and device/accessory manufacturers — with target audiences, helping them “acquire high-value customers, driving high lifetime value users on a cost per install basis.”
“Due to the fact that recommendations are catered to users’ specific interests, Drippler users are highly engaged with the apps they download,” adds Talmi.
Meanwhile, Drippler’s competitors include Softonic, Playboard, and AppAdvice. However, unlike a lot of other app discovery apps, Drippler says it goes beyond app recommendations by connecting users with “content, news and tech advice.”
The startup plans to use today’s Series A funding to invest further in developing its technology and data offerings, as well as expanding the team in its Tel Aviv headquarters and newly opened San Francisco office.