Merge branch 'main' of https://github.com/liamhbyrne/geochat into main

README.md

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+# geochat
+
+A location based groupchat app developed for *Highfield Hack 2021* by **Liam Byrne**, **Lucas Warwick** and **Sam Watson**
+
+[Hackathon Submission Devpost](https://devpost.com/software/geochat-r25ixj)  
+Demo Youtube Video:  
+[![GeoChat Demo Video](https://img.youtube.com/vi/jB7rDQ1j-Ow/0.jpg)](https://youtu.be/jB7rDQ1j-Ow)
+
+## Inspiration
+Recent events have emphasised a diminishing feeling of community that existed even before lockdown. We were surprised at the ease to make a connected the other side of the world but the distinct inability to build genuine connection within a local community.
+## What it does
+It uses location to provide group-chats of your closest location, allowing for the organisation of local events, advertising for local business, and being able to ask for recommendations etc...  
+<img src="https://challengepost-s3-challengepost.netdna-ssl.com/photos/production/software_photos/001/393/786/datas/original.jpg" alt="Geochat Login Activity" width="60%"/> 
+## How we built it
+We used android studio to make it into an android app, with Google Firebase as the back-end, taking care of database issues. We consulted our friends at university the full length of the project about what features they would like to see.  
+<img src="https://challengepost-s3-challengepost.netdna-ssl.com/photos/production/software_photos/001/393/785/datas/original.jpg" alt="Geochat Location Activity" width="60%"/>  
+## Challenges we ran into
+This was our first team programming task so we had lots of issues with branching and merging on git. 
+## Accomplishments that we're proud of
+Managed to build a functional and aesthetic app in a weekend! The app achieved the goals we set out, and provides a unique take on social media.  
+<img src="https://challengepost-s3-challengepost.netdna-ssl.com/photos/production/software_photos/001/393/787/datas/original.jpg" alt="Geochat Location Activity" width="60%"/> 
+## What we learned
+How to use (and the importance of) Git. 
+How to use Android studio and Firebase.
+Architecture for NoSQL serverless apps.
+What reverse geocoding is.
+## What's next for GeoChat
+**Global domination baby**. no, we will focus on improving safeguarding by tighter identity verification.