MobileGmaps
Latest
Free GPS-enabled mobile nav app from amAze
Although it really is not the first "free" mobile navigation app designed for J2ME-enabled, GPS-containing handsets, LocatioNet Systems is billing its 'amAze' product as such. AmAze (that's not a typo, heh) is apparently the first mapping, navigation and local search product specifically tailored to the UK. The app features standard location fare like satellite images, route planning and even weather forecasts. Topping it off is voice guidance via external Bluetooth GPS device or from your J2ME handset's built-in GPS. LocatioNet is able to give this app away free using ads integrated into the software itself, even going as far as displaying location-based ads derived from your exact location. Yes, something, somewhere will know you're next to that pizza joint and will send you "free slice" coupon or something. Hit up www.amazegps.com to download it if you're so inclined.
Sprint unhappy about Mobile GMaps usage on its phones
If you've used Mobile GMaps on your J2ME-capable handset, you probably love the GPS integration this third-party program has with Google Maps. With gpsOne being built into most Sprint handsets these days, customers of that carrier get a cool mapping and navigation service -- of sorts -- for free. But Sprint doesn't like this and is threatening legal action against the maker of Mobile GMaps unless the company removes or obfuscates the GPS tracking functionality. Is this another example of not letting the customer do what they want with the handset that was purchased along with the data package being paid for? We hope not, but this reported action (for possible revenue protection?) smacks of having no legal basis.
