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Your idea for a Starbucks calorie calculator addresses a gap in the existing Starbucks app: the inability to see calorie counts with customizations. Currently, you're entering a market with minimal activity, as indicated by the low number of similar products (n_matches = 1). This suggests either a niche problem or a problem not considered pressing by many. The low engagement (avg n_comments = 1) reinforces this, indicating limited discussion around existing solutions. The lack of net use/buy signals makes it even harder to assess, but based on all of this information, it's too early to invest heavily in development. You need to validate if there's genuine demand before proceeding, and find out if the official Starbucks app plans to integrate such features, and what customizations are most common to focus on those first.

Recommendations

1. Start by posting in online communities frequented by Starbucks customers (e.g., Reddit, nutrition/fitness forums) to gauge interest in a calorie calculator that includes customizations. Clearly explain the problem you're solving and ask if others have faced the same issue. For example, you can ask something along the lines of: "I am thinking of building an app that tells you the final calorie count with customizations in a Starbucks drink, would you use it?". Pay attention if many folks complain about this, and collect those comments as further data.
2. Offer to manually calculate the calorie information for customized Starbucks orders for a small group of potential users (2-3). This hands-on approach will give you direct insights into the types of customizations people make and the accuracy they require. Based on the criticism of similar products (Starbucks Menu), focus on the full menu or, rather, on the top 20 most popular drinks.
3. Create a short, simple explainer video demonstrating how your calculator would work and share it on relevant social media platforms. Track how many people watch the video in its entirety, as this indicates genuine interest. Show common customizations in the video, and use real examples (e.g. adding specific syrups or removing whipped cream.).
4. Consider creating a landing page where users can sign up for a waiting list, and optionally ask for a small deposit to show their commitment. This can help to differentiate those that are truly interested, and you will have revenue from day one.
5. If you can't find at least 5 genuinely interested people within 3 weeks of actively promoting your idea, it's wise to reconsider your approach or pivot to a different problem within the same domain (e.g., calculating macronutrients, offering healthier alternative customizations). If people complain that it already exists, then find out exactly what they are using and how you can improve on it.
6. Given the criticism that a similar product only provides some prices and not the full menu, prioritize creating a comprehensive database of Starbucks ingredients and their calorie counts. Regularly update this database to reflect changes in the Starbucks menu. Ensure that you are also including information related to the customizations themselves.

Questions

1. What are the most common Starbucks customizations that users struggle to find accurate calorie information for, and how can you prioritize those in your calculator?
2. How can you differentiate your calorie calculator from existing solutions, such as MyFitnessPal or Lose It!, and what unique value proposition can you offer Starbucks customers?
3. How can you ensure that your calorie data is accurate and up-to-date, especially considering that Starbucks frequently changes its menu and ingredients?