HandsetGps
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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.
Cell tower and GPS traces now standard fare in courtrooms
Although cellphone tower location registering has been used in courtrooms for some time, we just knew that the GPS capability and morewould be put forth for use in cases where even better location granularity is required. Well, what do ya know: it's here. For alleged murderer Darryl Littlejohn, he knows it all to well. While movement from tower to tower is not exactly a new strategy for attorneys to use when arguing cases, it's use as an alibi can go either way. Critics say that rush-hour wireless traffic can shunt signals to towers that cause accurate tracking to be obfuscated somewhat, while others say criminals can plant their handsets away from crime locations for later use as an alibi. Yeah, we love when lawyers begin grasping the technical ins and outs of wireless towers and advanced tracking methodologies.
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Sprint set to launch 'Friend Finder' location service
Sprint seems to be a huge fan of rolling out handset-based tracking and location services. It's latest, dubbed "Friend Finder," uses Loopt's technology to allow Sprint subscribers to get that social networking on while wireless. Like other LBS applications, the GPS chip inside that handset is used to update a customer's location every 15 minutes. Of course, all your friends must have Sprint phones as well as being Loopt customers, and friends have to grant access for you to track them. This is similar to Helio's Buddy Beacon service which launched in 2006. Cost? Sprint will make ya pony up $2.99 a month, and the service will initially work on 25 handset models from the carrier.[via mocoNews]
