Foursquare Explore for iOS rates places by check-in popularity, doesn't see stars

[ ](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/05/foursquare-explore-for-ios-rates-places-by-check-in-popularity/)

Gauging the quality of a restaurant or store through [star ratings](http://www.engadget.com/2012/10/30/yelp-new-explore-the-menu-feature/) is often just slightly more reliable than picking blindfolded; one undercooked stir fry may tank the ratings for what's otherwise a stellar eatery. In that sense, [Foursquare's](http://www.engadget.com/tag/Foursquare/) revamped Explore for iOS users is a long-overdue replacement for an old concept. Rather than let the overly emotional guide our decisions, the update assigns ratings from a 10-point system based on how many people check in, how many are regulars and the number of tips or likes -- in short, the degree to which people _actually like to visit_. Imagine that. Foursquare hasn't said when Android and other platforms will see the Explore switchover, but it shouldn't be too long before everyone knows where the local hotspot is without a few exceptions spoiling the rule.

Filed under: [Cellphones](http://www.engadget.com/category/cellphones/), [Internet](http://www.engadget.com/category/internet/), [Mobile](http://www.engadget.com/category/mobile/)

[Foursquare Explore for iOS rates places by check-in popularity, doesn't see stars](http://www.engadget.com/2012/11/05/foursquare-explore-for-ios-rates-places-by-check-in-popularity/) originally appeared on [Engadget](http://www.engadget.com) on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:46:00 EDT. Please see our [terms for use of feeds](http://www.weblogsinc.com/feed-terms/).

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