The astrology app Co-Star has a cult-like following with 5.3 million users as of 2019. The app provides users with ultra-personal horoscopes based off of an algorithm that combines exact birth dates and location of its users with NASA data, and information from human astrologers.
The app claims to “algorithmically generate insights about your personality and your future”. Co-Star examines nine different aspects of your life such as senses of responsibility, philosophies of life, and intellect and communication. Everyday, users are provided with an overarching horoscope or statement for the day, question and answers to compare to friends, a list of do’s and don’ts, and many other types of predictions, all of which are neatly presented in an aesthetically pleasing chart. Users are reminded to check their charts and predictions through daily “Your Day at a Glance” push notifications.
Co-Star’s predictions are often inspiring and insightful but also sometimes rude and blunt. Co-Star’s oddly specific horoscopes set them apart from other forms of astrology. Not only is Co-Star more accessible than other forms of astrology, but it feels more personal and less vague than other horoscopes. Astrology is still largely considered a pseudoscience, but in recent years, more people have been losing more traditional religious beliefs and instead turning towards astrology and other spiritual beliefs to add significance and meaning to their lives.
