Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com Download Squad http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Download Squad http://downloadsquad.switched.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Google Latitude check-ins added to Google Maps for Android 5.1]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/01/google-latitude-adds-check-ins-to-google-maps-for-android-5-1/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/01/google-latitude-adds-check-ins-to-google-maps-for-android-5-1/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2011/02/01/google-latitude-adds-check-ins-to-google-maps-for-android-5-1/#comments Google Latitude, Google's location-sharing service, just added the ability to check in at a location. You can now attach place names to your location, rather than just sharing your position on the map. Users of Google Maps for Android 5.1 can take advantage of these new check-ins, which bring Latitude a bit closer to location-based social networks like Foursquare, Gowalla and Facebook Places.

This isn't just Google playing catchup with the location leaders, though. Latitude's check-ins come with some slick features that competitors don't have. For example, you can set up notifications that will prompt you to check in, and turn on automatic check-ins for your favorite locations. Latitude will also automatically check you out of a place when you leave, which is a practical feature when you're actually trying to meet up with friends. Also, Latitude now integrates with Google's Place Pages. If you browse to a Place Page on your Android device, you'll find a button for a one-click check-in. Nice!

Latitude may not have fancy badges and mayorships like its competitors, but it's turning into a great practical tool for sharing your location and coordinating meetups with friends.

For a closer look at the new features in Latitude, check out Google's promo video after the jump.

Continue reading Google Latitude check-ins added to Google Maps for Android 5.1

Download SquadGoogle Latitude check-ins added to Google Maps for Android 5.1 originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappscheck-ingooglegoogle latitudegoogle mapsgoogle maps for androidGoogleLatitudeGoogleMapsGoogleMapsForAndroidgpslocationlocation-basedsocialnetworkingTue, 01 Feb 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google launches iPhone Latitude app, then takes it down]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/09/google-launches-iphone-latitude-app-then-takes-it-down/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/09/google-launches-iphone-latitude-app-then-takes-it-down/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/12/09/google-launches-iphone-latitude-app-then-takes-it-down/#commentsiphone google latitude app iconGoogle apparently launched and then retracted a Google Latitude iPhone app earlier this week. According to TechCrunch, an iOS client for the location-tracking service popped up in the Japanese App Store for less than a day before Google pulled it back down, and it apparently didn't appear in any other country's app store.

Latitude has been available as a web app on the iPhone for some time, but the native app was never submitted to Apple because it was assumed it would be rejected. Well, times change. There's now an official Google Voice app for iPhone, for example. Since Latitude has seemingly been approved now, it shouldn't be too long before it pops up in the US app store and around the world.

By the way, the biggest advantage of a native iPhone Latitude app is multitasking. You can't check in automatically in the background with the mobile web version of Latitude, but the iPhone app should offer that feature.

Download SquadGoogle launches iPhone Latitude app, then takes it down originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle latitudeGoogleLatitudeiphonelocationThu, 09 Dec 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google's mobile ads get hyperlocal -- and more useful!]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/30/googles-mobile-ads-get-hyperlocal-and-more-useful/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/30/googles-mobile-ads-get-hyperlocal-and-more-useful/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/30/googles-mobile-ads-get-hyperlocal-and-more-useful/#commentsFiled under:

You're standing dazed on a street corner in Palo Alto. Suddenly you realize, "Oh crap, I need to rent a car so I can rendezvous with the guys at Fronty's Meat Market!!" You whip out your Nexus One, search for car rentals, and bingo! A hyperlocal ad for an Enterprise location just half a mile away appears.

Now you've got your wheels, and the Donbot won't have to teach you a lesson.

If you happen to live in a metropolitan area, this is actually pretty cool. Sure, they're ads, but if they can be this relevant the majority of the time, they're pretty dang useful.

Well, useful to a lot of you, anyway. I'm not certain there are a lot of hyperlocal Google Mobile Ads being served for northern Manitoba, so I won't be getting much use out of them.

Download SquadGoogle's mobile ads get hyperlocal -- and more useful! originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsavertisinggeolocationgpshyperlocalmobileThu, 30 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nike+ iPhone app, now with GPS, is a runner's best friend]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/07/nike-plus-iphone-app-now-with-gps-is-a-runners-best-friend/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/07/nike-plus-iphone-app-now-with-gps-is-a-runners-best-friend/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/09/07/nike-plus-iphone-app-now-with-gps-is-a-runners-best-friend/#commentsFiled under: ,

As much as I've always wanted to use Nike+ with my iPhone, I stayed away because of the required hardware. Well, the new version of the app doesn't require Nike+-equipped running shoes, so I'm ready to shell out my 2 bucks and hit the trail with nothing but my iPhone's internal GPS. Nike+ GPS gives you a readout of your speed, pace and distance covered, plus a visual record of your run using Google Maps, all without any shoes or kits to buy.

I also love RunKeeper's ad-supported free app, which overlaps a lot of the features of the Nike+ GPS version, but there are some advantages to paying for Nike+. First, your path on Google maps is color-coded to give a quick visual readout of how fast you were going during each part of your run. Second, and probably more important for current Nike+ diehards, the new app includes playlist support for Power Songs to complement your run. Nike+, like RunKeeper, has an online community where you can share your runs.

[via Switched]

Download SquadNike+ iPhone app, now with GPS, is a runner's best friend originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpsnike+nike+ gpsNike+GpsrunningworkoutTue, 07 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Marmota project shows off what we can expect from augmented reality in the next few years]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/24/the-marmota-project-shows-off-what-we-can-expect-from-augmented/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/24/the-marmota-project-shows-off-what-we-can-expect-from-augmented/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/24/the-marmota-project-shows-off-what-we-can-expect-from-augmented/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Augmented reality, at the moment, is a bit kitsch. It's a technology that's been threatening to emerge for years but, like "virtual reality," it's always been held back by technological constraints. Until the last year or two, most AR and VR implementations involved you wheeling around a laptop (or strapping it to your back!) -- and VR still requires a silly pair of glasses. That's all about to change, however, with the gigahertz-in-our-pocket smartphones.

In the next few years, almost everyone in the Western world will have a handheld device that's capable of displaying rich 3D graphics. GPS will pinpoint your location and elevation in real-time, and 3G and 4G (5, 6, 7 ...) networks will make both topological data and the Internet's wealth of contextual data available at any time and any place. But enough talking, let me show you what I'm talking about: check out the Marmota project. It hides behind such subtitles as "visual environment monitoring" and "semantic image labelling," but in essence, it's the next step in augmented reality.

The best thing would be for you to read through the Marmota website and check out the pictures, but I'll give you an example of what Marmota will let you do. Right now, you can pull down Flickr photos from a given geolocation -- that's pretty cool, ... but that's also about it for the current state of augmented reality. With Marmota, you point your camera at a landscape (or cityscape!), and the server sends you topological and contextual information for the scene you're looking at. So, if you hold your smartphone up in front of a mountain, the mountain's name and elevation are shown on the screen (here's a larger version of the image above) -- the software can also show you roads, landmarks, and so on. Using topological information, the 2D image on your phone can even be converted into a 3D image (watch the video, it's very cool), and presumably you can then see over a range of mountains and down into the valley beyond!

The coolest thing is, this technology is actually ready to go. The project has used Android phones as its test bed, and the app should be available in the "immediate future." I'll keep you updated and bring you a proper review as soon as possible.

[via ReadWriteWeb]

Download SquadThe Marmota project shows off what we can expect from augmented reality in the next few years originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitygeolocationgpsmarmotasmartphoneVRTue, 24 Aug 2010 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Man leaves his very large message on the world with GPS "pen"]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/16/man-leaves-his-very-large-message-on-the-world-with-gps-pen/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/16/man-leaves-his-very-large-message-on-the-world-with-gps-pen/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/08/16/man-leaves-his-very-large-message-on-the-world-with-gps-pen/#commentsFiled under:

A lot of people have used map software to trace out messages across the world's roads, but Nick Newcomen is the first to actually drive the routes and map them with a GPS. Newcomen traveled over 12,000 miles around the US, starting from Texas, to spell out "Read Ayn Rand" across the American landscape. His work is now the biggest piece of GPS writing ever recorded.

Whether or not you like Rand, one of the best-selling (and most controversial) novelists in history, you have to admit that this is a pretty impressive feat of creativity and driving endurance. Anyone could Photoshop the resulting image, but it takes serious dedication to hit the road and map it out. If I were to spell out a message across the entire United States, I wouldn't pick "Read Ayn Rand," though. Maybe "Read Download Squad" would fit?

[via Switched]

Download SquadMan leaves his very large message on the world with GPS "pen" originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artayn randAynRandGPSnewsworld recordWorldRecordwritingMon, 16 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hapless boob steals iPhone while it demos realtime GPS tracking app]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/07/22/hapless-boob-steals-iphone-while-it-demos-realtime-gps-tracking/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/07/22/hapless-boob-steals-iphone-while-it-demos-realtime-gps-tracking/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/07/22/hapless-boob-steals-iphone-while-it-demos-realtime-gps-tracking/#commentsFiled under: ,

Normally this one would fall just outside the Download Squad perimeter, but who doesn't enjoy chuckling at an unlucky criminal? And besides, there's software involved -- which you'll be able to download at some point -- which does kinda make it relevant!

See, this particular thief strolled up and nabbed an iPhone out of an unsuspecting woman's hand. Unfortunately for him, the phone was in the middle of a demo -- which happened to be for a realtime GPS tracking app with camera and mic support. The app -- Covia Labs' Alert & Respond -- was pumping out his position on a map of San Francisco as he made his escape.

Once the woman notified police, it took all of ten minutes to arrest the "thief" -- who probably could have saved himself some embarassment by looking at the iPhone's screen to see what it was doing.

At least Covia was kind enough not to turn on the mic or camera -- they didn't want to alert him.

Man, wouldn't it have been sweet if they had?

[via San Francisco Chronicle -- original image by Flickr user dbking]

Download SquadHapless boob steals iPhone while it demos realtime GPS tracking app originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>failgpsiphonerobberythieftrackingThu, 22 Jul 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sleep Blaster for iPhone wakes you up when you reach your destination]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/06/13/sleep-blaster-for-iphone-wakes-you-up-when-you-reach-your-destin/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/06/13/sleep-blaster-for-iphone-wakes-you-up-when-you-reach-your-destin/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/06/13/sleep-blaster-for-iphone-wakes-you-up-when-you-reach-your-destin/#commentsFiled under: ,

The iPhone's built-in alarm clock app is pretty good -- multiple alarms are nice, and it's very easy to set -- but there are some things it just can't do. For example, it can't wake you up automatically when you reach your destination. Sleep Blaster can, though. If you're on a train or a bus, you can set Sleep Blaster to wake you up when your GPS detects that you've arrived.

I can't count the number of times I've slept through a stop, and Sleep Blaster would have been a clever way to prevent that from happening. It might not work on the subway, though, where reception is harder to come by. Because an iPhone GPS is a fickle thing, and not always entirely precise, it's useful that Sleep Blaster lets you draw a line on the map, instead of just a single point. It also has a feature I've wished many of my alarm clocks had: you can yell at it to turn it off.

That might not be great if you're the type who intentionally puts the alarm clock across the room to keep from shutting it off before you wake up, and you probably don't want to combine the yelling with riding public transportation, but it seems pretty cool anyway.

A few other cool features of Sleep Blaster: it can generate ocean wave sounds to put you to sleep, and it has a Dynamite Mode that wakes you up with an extra-loud boom. If you don't like being jarred awake by an explosion, just pick a nice MP3 from your iPod instead. Also, it solves the problem of accidentally switching AM and PM, by asking you to confirm your alarm time if it seems like you made a mistake. God, I wish my college alarm clock had included that feature.

[via Mobiputing]

Download SquadSleep Blaster for iPhone wakes you up when you reach your destination originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 13 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alarmalarm clockAlarmClockgpsiphonesleep blasterSleepBlasterwake upWakeUpSun, 13 Jun 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Maps Navigation finally activated in non-English speaking countries... and Canada]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/06/09/google-maps-navigation-finally-activated-in-non-english-speaking/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/06/09/google-maps-navigation-finally-activated-in-non-english-speaking/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/06/09/google-maps-navigation-finally-activated-in-non-english-speaking/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Google's turn-by-turn GPS navigation software for smartphones has today been enabled in western, continental Europe... and Canada!

If you've not used it before, Google Maps Navigation, despite carrying Google's omnipresent 'Beta' tag,' is as good as GPS navigation gets. It might not be quite as refined as commercial, big-bucks navigation systems, but the sheer number of awesome features easily make up for any rough edges. It really is just Google Maps with voice guidance -- and it's free.

Speaking of voices: Google Maps Navigation has search by voice, and that's actually the focus of today's roll-out to continental Europe. Instead of dangerously (or illegally) fiddling around with the touchscreen while driving, just call out your destination! Watch the video after the break: it's impressive. As of today, you can also voice search in French, German, Italian and Spanish (along with English, Chinese and Japanese). See the full Google announcement for details.

As for which countries have been enabled (because Google hasn't said!), Engadget is reporting that the following have been switched on: Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland and even Belgium.

To install it, just search for 'Google Maps' in the Android Marketplace on your phone. BlackBerry, iPhone and Nokia S60 users should visit m.google.com instead.

Continue reading Google Maps Navigation finally activated in non-English speaking countries... and Canada

Download SquadGoogle Maps Navigation finally activated in non-English speaking countries... and Canada originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 09 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefreegooglegpsmapsmobilenavigationsearchsmartphoneturn-by-turnvoiceWed, 09 Jun 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Latitude + Google Location History = very cool and kinda scary]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/05/27/google-latitude-google-location-history-very-cool-and-kinda/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/05/27/google-latitude-google-location-history-very-cool-and-kinda/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/05/27/google-latitude-google-location-history-very-cool-and-kinda/#commentsFiled under: ,

Google has just launched a new service -- Location History -- that keeps track of your movements.

Before you get your panties and/or beard in a twist, you can delete your location history at any time. It's private, too: neither your friends or the public can see your location history.

Now, with that out of the way, are you grinning like a fool at the prospect of how awesome such a tool is, or petrified of the potential privacy issues? The paranoid amongst us will point out that government agencies could request your location history -- but at the same time, if you're innocent, you have a rock-solid alibi!

Then there are the value-added features: not only is it kinda cool to see where you've been, but you can also revisit your travels via Google Earth and Maps. You can also check at a glance where you were on a given day, which can be handy if you're one of those busy people whose days seem to all merge into one.

Finally, with Location History bonding to Latitude (it's a Latitude app, in fact), you can have Google send you a notification when you are physically near to a friend. Because Location History knows your regular locations, you can set it so that notifications only trigger when you are in an unusual place... such as a large park... at night... in the bushes.
Share submit to reddit StumbleUpon.com

Download SquadGoogle Latitude + Google Location History = very cool and kinda scary originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 27 May 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>geolocationgooglegoogle earthgoogle mapsGoogleEarthGoogleMapsgpslatitudelocation historyLocationHistorytravelThu, 27 May 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook's location features will include Foursquare-style checkins]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/05/11/facebooks-location-features-will-include-foursquare-style-check/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/05/11/facebooks-location-features-will-include-foursquare-style-check/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/05/11/facebooks-location-features-will-include-foursquare-style-check/#commentsFiled under: ,

Although they've been overshadowed by nightmarish privacy concerns lately, Facebook's upcoming location features are starting to get some buzz again. This time, it's been more-or-less confirmed that Facebook will be introducing Foursquare-style checkins, at least on mobile versions of the site.

Some code for a "location" tab in the touch.facebook.com version of the site seems to indicate checkins are coming, and also that Facebook's GPS accuracy might be even better than Foursquare's or Gowalla's.

The checkin system will use HTML5's location attribute, and not every browser supports that yet, so Facebook might just roll out checkins to mobile versions of the site at first. The location code includes latitude and longitude [no way! -Ed], as well as a measurement of how accurate your location is. I'm not sure how Facebook plans to measure accuracy, but it would be a trump card to play against other location services.

Hopefully, Facebook will allow other apps to access its location features via API, so you can pass existing Foursquare and Gowalla checkins to FB, and vice-versa.

[via TechCrunch]

Download SquadFacebook's location features will include Foursquare-style checkins originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 11 May 2010 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>checkinfacebookfoursquareGPSlocationlocation-basedplacesTue, 11 May 2010 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google denies rumors of turn-by-turn navigation for iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/23/google-denies-rumors-of-turn-by-turn-navigation-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/23/google-denies-rumors-of-turn-by-turn-navigation-for-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/23/google-denies-rumors-of-turn-by-turn-navigation-for-iphone/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When Google launched turn-by-turn navigation for Android phones, everyone read it as a slap in the face to Apple. Sure, Google may power the iPhone's Maps app, but Android was going to have the exclusive ability to replace that expensive TomTom (or other name-brand navigation system) in your car. Earlier this week, Google started rumors that all that might change, and its free nav software would be coming to the iPhone.

Apparently, they jumped the gun, because they're now denying everything.

The rumors started when MacUser (UK) reported that Google announced its plans for the iPhone at a London press conference. The iPhone mention was just a footnote to the UK launch of turn-by-turn for Android, but it was enough to get iPhone owners in the US excited.

Unfortunately, Google's response to the reports doesn't offer much hope. A spokesman told PCWorld "We did not say we would bring it to iPhone, we said to date we've had it on Android and that in the future it may come to other platforms but did not confirm this will be coming to iPhone at all." I guess "not confirming" is better than outright saying no, but this quote makes the chances sound bleak.

Download SquadGoogle denies rumors of turn-by-turn navigation for iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 23 Apr 2010 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle mapsGoogleMapsgpsiphonenavigationsatnavturn-by-turnFri, 23 Apr 2010 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Screenshot tour: GMapCatcher lets you use Google Maps offline]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/20/screenshot-tour-gmapcatcher-lets-you-use-google-maps-offline/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/20/screenshot-tour-gmapcatcher-lets-you-use-google-maps-offline/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/20/screenshot-tour-gmapcatcher-lets-you-use-google-maps-offline/#commentsFiled under:

GMapCatcher

My girlfriend recently took me on a long road trip through rural Canada. We had a blast, but one of the trickiest parts was navigating. Canada is vast, and we had to keep flipping back and forth between differently-scaled maps. If only we had known about GMapCatcher before the trip, things could have been much simpler.

In a nutshell, GMapCatcher lets you select an area of land and a range of zoom levels and then download that entire area for offline browsing. Once you've completed the download, you can take your laptop with you and enjoy the functionality of Google Maps (or one of several other mapping services) on the road, with no GPS and no data connection. (A GPS is optional, but not a must.)

GMapCatcher is written in Python so it's cross-platform, and it has an easy-to-use Windows installer. I took it out for a spin, which you can see after the jump.

Continue reading Screenshot tour: GMapCatcher lets you use Google Maps offline

Download SquadScreenshot tour: GMapCatcher lets you use Google Maps offline originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegoogle mapsGoogleMapsgpsnavigationpythonTue, 20 Apr 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Foursquare stops cheaters in their tracks with GPS policing]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/07/foursquare-stops-cheaters-in-their-tracks-with-gps-policing/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/07/foursquare-stops-cheaters-in-their-tracks-with-gps-policing/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/07/foursquare-stops-cheaters-in-their-tracks-with-gps-policing/#commentsFiled under:

Cheating at Foursquare has always been insanely easy. Check in somewhere you're not, get the points, take unearned mayorships ... no problem. In fact, there are even some loathsome new third-party services that let you pay for mayorships.

Well, Foursquare has had enough of that, especially since businesses now offer real-world perks based on checkins. They've implemented a new anti-cheating system that only gives points if you're at least somewhat near the places you check in.

You can't get around the no-cheat system by using a phone without a GPS, or turning your GPS off, either, because Foursquare is also using "a few different tricks" to prevent that. GPS locations aren't perfect, though, and sometimes that results in having a legitimate checkin ruled cheating. I guess that's what happens when people abuse the honor system as often as they have on Foursquare.

It's also worth pointing out that Foursquare competitor Gowalla has had GPS policing for some time, although their seems to be a bit tighter than Foursquare's.

Download SquadFoursquare stops cheaters in their tracks with GPS policing originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 19:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheatingcheckinfoursquaregpslocation-basedmobilepolicingWed, 07 Apr 2010 19:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Free MapQuest 4 Mobile iPhone app has voice navigation]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/07/free-mapquest-4-mobile-iphone-app-has-voice-navigation/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/07/free-mapquest-4-mobile-iphone-app-has-voice-navigation/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/04/07/free-mapquest-4-mobile-iphone-app-has-voice-navigation/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

MapQuest 4 MobileI'm directionally impaired. It might not be a real ailment, but for me it might as well be. Without a map, I couldn't find my way out of a room with one door. So for me, the built-in Google Maps functionality in my iPhone has changed my life.

While I love Google Maps, one thing I don't love about it is the lack of voice directions. While driving, I find that I spend far too much time studying the map in order to try and figure out if it's the next left I want to take, or the one after that? Should I even be turning left? It's hard to tell sometimes with that top-down view.

Well, MapQuest has released an iPhone navigation app called MapQuest 4 Mobile [iTunes link], and while it won't fix my issue with the top-down view, it does add a killer feature: voice directions.

So, how well do they work?

Overall, they're not bad. The voice itself is obviously computer generated, and sometimes it's a bit hard to understand in a noisy, moving car. The app ducks the volume of any music or podcast that you happen to be listening to while it speaks directions to you, which is helpful. However, the quality of the voice is still problematic. It's also a little strange, since MapQuest doesn't attempt to speak street names, but rather just gives generic instructions: "Prepare to turn left," "Get ready to turn left," or "Turn left now." Given MapQuest's limited vocabulary, it would seem like using recordings of a real voice would be easy enough to do, and easier to understand.

Sound quality quibble aside, I'm pretty happy with MapQuest on my iPhone. Once my phone's GPS gets a solid lock, the instructions come with enough warning to allow me to be ready for turns. On the screen, you can see the distance to your destination decreasing in realtime, though it would be nice to also see the ETA.

I've only had a chance to test it on a few routes, and I'd have to say that it chooses conservative routing compared to Google Maps. It will get you there, but you might have been able to get there a couple of minutes quicker with the route Google Maps would have chosen.

At the end of the day, I just don't want to get lost, so losing a few minutes is not a big deal. I'm going to keep using MapQuest, and I have high hopes that updates will improve on an already winning product.

[via Mashable]

Download SquadFree MapQuest 4 Mobile iPhone app has voice navigation originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>generic instructionsGenericInstructionsglobal positioning systemGlobalPositioningSystemgoogle mapsGoogleMapsgpsiWed, 07 Apr 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Geosense brings GPS-free location awareness to Windows 7]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/01/geosense-brings-gps-free-location-awareness-to-windows-7/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/01/geosense-brings-gps-free-location-awareness-to-windows-7/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/03/01/geosense-brings-gps-free-location-awareness-to-windows-7/#commentsFiled under:

Two of my favorite Windows tinkerers -- Rafael Rivera and Long Zheng -- got tired of waiting for someone, somewhere to make use of Windows 7's cool, built-in sensor support. Rather than twiddle their thumbs like certain non-coders who are writing about them (read: me), they decided to do something about it.

Enter Geosense, a free download for Windows 7 which allows you to activate location awareness on your system without the need for GPS hardware.

Once it's installed, you'll be able to make use of geolocation features in various apps. Granted, the list is pretty short right now. The Geosense site only mentions MahTweets (a Twitter client), their own Google Maps demo app, and the built-in weather gadget in Windows 7.

Geosense works nicely, and I can't wait for location-aware apps to do things like automatically switch my default printer when I cart my laptop from home to work. Hopefully this will give app developers a kick in the pants and we'll see some more cool apps soon.
Share StumbleUpon.com

Download SquadGeosense brings GPS-free location awareness to Windows 7 originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awarenessgeolocationgpssensorwin7windows 7Windows7Mon, 01 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gowalla's Android app is in beta, uses Skyhook for accurate geolocation]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/02/23/gowallas-android-app-is-in-beta-uses-skyhook-powered-location/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/02/23/gowallas-android-app-is-in-beta-uses-skyhook-powered-location/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/02/23/gowallas-android-app-is-in-beta-uses-skyhook-powered-location/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A big part of getting a location-based app right is -- shocker! -- providing an accurate location.

Gowalla is using that principle to get a leg up in its battle with Foursquare for location-based check-in supremacy. Gowalla now uses Skyhook in its Android app, which means it's providing some of the best location data around.

The Android app is currently in beta, although it's not highly publicized. You can read about it and download it from Gowalla's Get Satisfaction page.

The Gowalla iPhone app was already Skyhook-enabled, and the developers noticed that it was a lot better at pinpointing locations than its Android counterpart.

Fortunately, there's a Skyhook SDK that Android devs can use for their own location-aware apps. Foursquare hasn't added Skyhook to its Android app, as far as I know, but the third-party Mac desktop app FoursquareX uses Skyhook to find locations via wifi.

Download SquadGowalla's Android app is in beta, uses Skyhook for accurate geolocation originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcheckinFourSquaregowallagpslocationlocation-basedmobileskyhookTue, 23 Feb 2010 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Hate the voice on your GPS? Change it with Garmin Voice Studio]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/24/hate-the-voice-on-your-gps-change-it-with-garmin-voice-studio/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/24/hate-the-voice-on-your-gps-change-it-with-garmin-voice-studio/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/24/hate-the-voice-on-your-gps-change-it-with-garmin-voice-studio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you can't stand to hear another word from the obnoxious voice that delivers turn-by-turn directions on your GPS device, you may have a way out. If you've got a Garmin GPS, you can use the new Garmin Voice Studio to replace the device's recorded phrases - "recalculating!" - with recordings of your own. Personally, I can't stand the sound of my own voice any more than I can handle the smug, British GPS lady, but that's where friends with voice talent come in handy.

There are a few dozen phrases to record, which could take a while, but it might be worth it for the potential hilarity that could ensue. I mean, nobody's forcing you to record the phrases as scripted. You could use terminology from Star Trek, throw a weird accent in there, sing all the words ... the possibilities are unlimited. Garmin Voice Studio doesn't work with every Garmin device, though, so check the list before you download the free Windows app.

[via Lifehacker]
Share

Download SquadHate the voice on your GPS? Change it with Garmin Voice Studio originally appeared on Download Squad on Sun, 24 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiogarmingarmin voice studiogarminnuvGarminVoiceStudiogpsnuvirecordingvoiceSun, 24 Jan 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google takes advantage of GPS with "near me now" for Android and mobile]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/08/google-takes-advantage-of-gps-with-near-me-now-for-android-and/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/08/google-takes-advantage-of-gps-with-near-me-now-for-android-and/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/08/google-takes-advantage-of-gps-with-near-me-now-for-android-and/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Finding information about businesses in your vicinity just got one step easier. Thanks to a new Google feature called "near me now," you don't even have to enter a location to search around your location on your mobile device. "Near me now" uses your phone's GPS - on Android or via Google's mobile website - to let you browse nearby locations.

Near me now offers a list of common categories, so it's easy to find the closest coffee shop or pizza place. The coolest feature is the "explore right here" button, though.

If your GPS is accurate down to the city block, "explore right here" will give you info on businesses you can probably see from where you're standing. That's two clicks from walking by a restaurant to figuring out whether you want to try it. Nicely done, Google.

Download SquadGoogle takes advantage of GPS with "near me now" for Android and mobile originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbusinessesgooglegpslocationmobilenear me nowNearMeNowsearchFri, 08 Jan 2010 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Foursquare beta now available for the Palm Pre]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/01/foursquare-beta-comes-to-the-pre/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/01/foursquare-beta-comes-to-the-pre/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2010/01/01/foursquare-beta-comes-to-the-pre/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

For the last month or so, I've been keenly keeping an eye on the progress of the open source webOS application for Foursquare: the location-based mobile game that's been in the tech spotlight since its launch at SXSW last year.

Whilst you can check in online using Foursquare's mobile website, the folks at Foursquare have been gradually rolling out more native applications after launching with just an iPhone app. On top of the existing iPhone, Android and beta Blackberry applications out there, the new webOS app has just been made available for Pre and Pixi users to use.

Though the application is available as part of the webOS App Catalogue, it's currently still in beta. As such there are a couple of unfinished areas to the app - including the leaderboards for each Foursquare city.

However, if you simply have to check into it at the gym, coffee shop or elsewhere on your Pre, be sure to have a look at our gallery after the break and visit the App Catalogue to download the beta!

Continue reading Foursquare beta now available for the Palm Pre

Download SquadFoursquare beta now available for the Palm Pre originally appeared on Download Squad on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>foursquareGPSlocation servicesLocationServicesPalm PrePalmPrewebOSFri, 01 Jan 2010 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T Mark the Spot: an iPhone app that lets you report sucky service]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/12/07/atandt-mark-the-spot-an-iphone-app-that-lets-you-report-sucky-ser/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/12/07/atandt-mark-the-spot-an-iphone-app-that-lets-you-report-sucky-ser/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/12/07/atandt-mark-the-spot-an-iphone-app-that-lets-you-report-sucky-ser/#commentsReleased by AT&T themselves, Mark the Spot is an iPhone app that very simply lets you report outages in your mobile connectivity. Have a look at the screenshot -- what you see is what you get. An honest, earnest piece of troubleshooting software!

Kudos must be given to AT&T for a truly humble app. Network admins have limited contact with the end-users during the best of times -- there's a smoke-screen of customer support FUD in between -- but with an app like this, AT&T can get direct, useful feedback.

But humble applications like these are double-edged blades. Imagine if you had an app that let you report, directly to Microsoft, every time Mr Clippy bugged you in a banal, bothersome fashion? I'm sure AT&T have released Mark the Spot with honorable intentions but I can foresee nefarious uses in its immediate future.

Being a British citizen I don't know if there are such things as 'Verizon Warriors' or some kind of 'V' zealotry (this is classic blue vs. red mentality isn't it?), but is it too crazy to imagine Verizon grabbing a bunch of iPhones, installing Mark the Spot, and sending its staff all over America to submit false feedback?

Relying on the customer for reliable feedback is risky at the best of times. Assuming app users will be trustworthy at the height of this polarized and bitter war between AT&T and Verizon is just plain stupid.

[via Just Another iPhone Blog -- Mark the Spot on iTunes (free)]

Download SquadAT&T Mark the Spot: an iPhone app that lets you report sucky service originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appattgpsiphonetroubleshootingverizonMon, 07 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Imitation is the sincerest form of fartery]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/03/26/imitation-is-the-sincerest-form-of-fartery/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/03/26/imitation-is-the-sincerest-form-of-fartery/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2009/03/26/imitation-is-the-sincerest-form-of-fartery/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

My primary phone is a BlackBerry, but I also own an iPhone with no service contract. Several weeks ago I had the lucky gig of compiling a few fart apps for TUAW, and I was less than impressed with the overall situation. In other words: most fart apps stink.

But let's face it, fart apps made a lot of noise for the iPhone, in no small part because Apple initially refused to "pull the finger," effectively blocking them from the App Store. Now the fart app floodgates are open, and the App Store is flush with flatulence. It was only a matter of time before other platforms took the bait and improved upon the iPhone apps in ways the iPhone simply won't allow. Sort of.

You can see a long, boring, detailed breakdown of features for BSFartApp ($1.99) by clicking the read more link, but here's the basic deal: BSFartApp is a complicated and powerful fart app for Windows Mobile. I have nothing against novelty apps. In fact, BSFartApp is superior to many iPhone fart apps in features, but it really falls down in terms of actual usability. Maybe WinMo users are conditioned to doing things in 3 clicks instead of one, but I am not.

As one example of terrible UI, in order to navigate down a menu, you must click AND swipe. Do what now? Why not just swipe? Or just click? The buttons have little arrows that would seem to indicate such functionality, so why not do as the user expects? Also, while there are plenty of use cases for timed or triggered farts (yes, the office clown, we love him, but will he make it to the corner office?), what about just letting one rip? Yeah, you're gonna be about 3 or 4 menus down to just let one go. Thank goodness our own bodily functions are less complicated. Things are bad when you start referring to generic soundboard apps on the iPhone as "elegant by comparison."

BSFartApp's real advantage over iPhone is the ability to send a fart via MMS. Plus, there's a pretty nifty "eavesdrop" feature that should have you getting sued and/or grounded in no time (there's a similar feature that returns the GPS coordinates for supported phones). I'm less impressed with the phone-as-web-server, since the iPhone will do that as well, but WinMo still has an advantage by allowing background processes to run. OK, so I guess it's good that WinMo is getting a little fart app action. Now if only it wasn't such a PITA to use them...

Continue reading Imitation is the sincerest form of fartery

Download SquadImitation is the sincerest form of fartery originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialeavesdropentertainmentfartfart appFartAppgpsjokeprankusabilitywindows mobileWindowsMobilewinmoThu, 26 Mar 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tiny Geo-coder, for all of your latitude and longitude needs]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/11/11/tiny-geo-coder-for-all-of-your-latitude-and-longitude-needs/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/11/11/tiny-geo-coder-for-all-of-your-latitude-and-longitude-needs/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/11/11/tiny-geo-coder-for-all-of-your-latitude-and-longitude-needs/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I have to confess that, until today, I was still converting latitude and longitude by Googling "convert GPS coordinates" and putting it into whatever came up first. That just changed when I found Tiny Geo-coder. It converts coordinate pairs to addresses, and vice versa. Not only that, but it has an API, so you can use it in other web projects that require coordinates.

One of the first real-world uses of Tiny Geo-coder can be seen on travel.perfectspace.com, where the authors are passing their check-ins on Brightkite through Tiny Geo-coder to generate a map of their location for display on the site. Another possibility that comes immediately to mind is converting the coordinates that the iPhone version Twitterrific generates into the name of the location for your Twitter profile. I'm sure clever people will come up with some even better ideas for this little app.

Download SquadTiny Geo-coder, for all of your latitude and longitude needs originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apicoordinatesGoogle-Mapsgpslocationlocation-basedTiny-Geo-CoderTinyGeocoderTue, 11 Nov 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Seero lets you geo-tag your videos]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/08/05/seero-lets-you-geo-tag-your-videos/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/08/05/seero-lets-you-geo-tag-your-videos/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/08/05/seero-lets-you-geo-tag-your-videos/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Seero
I'm pretty bad about remembering to pull out our video camera to record our family's adventures. I think the thought of a bunch of raw, unedited footage piling up just makes me anxious. Of course, something that feels like work can instantly be turned into fun if you throw in a bit of technology, particularly software, right?

My first exposure to Seero was when my dad sent along a link to a video clip of the classic chase scene from the Steve McQueen classic movie Bullitt. Someone had taken the time to painstakingly geo-tag each scene of the movie so that as you watch the scene you can also watch a map of downtown San Francisco showing just where McQueen was during each scene. It's oddly compelling.

It turns out that the Seero site, while well suited to this particular use, is intended for users to record their own adventures with geo-tagging so that others can see just where they were when they saw what they saw.

So, now instead of just having to edit a pile of raw footage, I'll have to edit, then geo-tag it. But depending on what we're recording, the resulting mashup just might be worth it.

Download SquadSeero lets you geo-tag your videos originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freewaregeo-taggeo-tagginggpsgpstrackingmashupvideovideo-mashupTue, 05 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UrbanSpoon releases iPhone-native restaurant finder]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/18/urbanspoon-releases-iphone-native-restaurant-finder/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/18/urbanspoon-releases-iphone-native-restaurant-finder/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/06/18/urbanspoon-releases-iphone-native-restaurant-finder/#commentsOne of the two big differences in the new iPhone 3G is the included GPS technology. Restaurant locator/review site UrbanSpoon knows this very well, and they've taken advantage of the GPS with an iPhone native app for UrbanSpoon. Without even having to tell it, it knows where you are, it knows where restaurants are, and it's ready to get food into your mouth.

It gets more fun than that, though: you can actually shake your iPhone like a Magic 8-Ball to get a random recommendation near you. This is great if you're really hungry, don't care where you eat, or just like trying new places. An iPhone native app gives UrbanSpoon a leg up on other review sites like Yelp (which we also find very useful!) by making its information more easily portable. Look for it in July, when Apple launches the iPhone app store.

[via MG Siegler at VentureBeat]

Download SquadUrbanSpoon releases iPhone-native restaurant finder originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>foodGPSiPhoneiphone 3giPhone AppIphone3gIphoneApprestaurantsUrbanSpoonWed, 18 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[TrailRunner: your new outdoor sports buddy]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/05/26/trailrunner-your-new-outdoor-sports-buddy/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/05/26/trailrunner-your-new-outdoor-sports-buddy/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/05/26/trailrunner-your-new-outdoor-sports-buddy/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you're an avid runner, hiker or cyclist, you probably need some way to keep track of your routes and plan workouts that cover just the right distance. TrailRunner is an application that's up to the job. It keeps track of your point-to-point "tracks" using open-source maps, and lets you stitch them together into complete routes. It also works with a ForeRunner GPS, if you happen to have one, or with Apple's Nike+iPod kit.

TrailRunner keeps track of distances and elevations, and shows your routes in an attractive, very readable display. We didn't have any of the supported devices to test it with, but TrailRunner's basic features are easy enough to use that we're seriously considering buying one. It might take a while to build up a solid list of tracks and learn how to use the advanced features, but it could be worth the effort of venturing into the out-of-doors for extended periods of time is your thing.

Download SquadTrailRunner: your new outdoor sports buddy originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 26 May 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpshikingoutdoorsrunningsportstrailrunnerMon, 26 May 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia Sports Tracker gets a Facebook app]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/10/nokia-sports-tracker-gets-a-facebook-app/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/10/nokia-sports-tracker-gets-a-facebook-app/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2008/01/10/nokia-sports-tracker-gets-a-facebook-app/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nokia Sports Tracker
Nokia Sports Tracker is an amazing application for Nokia N series smartphones that uses GPS to enable users to track their activities. Do you have a friend who has a Garmin ForeRunner? These are amazing GPS watches because they give you exact statistics about distance traveled, average speed, elevation gain, etc. Well Nokia Sports Tracker gives you the same information by using the GPS in your Nokia phone (such as the N95).

Nokia has taken the next step by allowing you to share this information with your friends by developing a Facebook application. Now you can share your latest workouts and routes directly in your Facebook profile. Information such as your speed, distance and time are automatically stored to your training diary.

Enjoy sharing your route, speed, and distance with your friends with this smart new Facebook Application.

Download SquadNokia Sports Tracker gets a Facebook app originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpsn95nokianseriesThu, 10 Jan 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google launches GPS killer for mobile phones]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/11/28/google-launches-gps-killer-for-mobile-phones/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/11/28/google-launches-gps-killer-for-mobile-phones/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/11/28/google-launches-gps-killer-for-mobile-phones/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Google has just added a new feature "My Location" feature to Google Maps for mobile phones. Basically, it works like GPS, but instead of connecting to a satellite, it gathers information from nearby cell towers to determine your location. So your phone doesn't need to be GPS enabled, it just needs to have a data plan in order to plot your position on a map.

Google Maps for Mobile runs on most J2ME-enabled devices, including BlackBerry phones, Windows Mobile, Palm, and Symbian devices. Although you can run Google Maps on Windows Mobile PDAs that are not cellphones, you won't be able to use the My Location feature, since your device won't know how to connect to cellphone towers.

Oh, and while Google could theoretically use this information to stalk you, if you believe the promotional video above, the company claims that it doesn't keep tabs on your personal information and location.

[via Google Operating System]

Download SquadGoogle launches GPS killer for mobile phones originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonesgoogle-mapsgpsmobile-phonesmobileminuteWed, 28 Nov 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: GPS with Maemo Mapper on the N800]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/10/17/hands-on-gps-with-maemo-mapper-on-the-n800/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/10/17/hands-on-gps-with-maemo-mapper-on-the-n800/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/10/17/hands-on-gps-with-maemo-mapper-on-the-n800/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Last time we took a look at the Nokia N800 Internet Tablet, we showed how to do some fun, if easy, stuff with it--like setting up custom RSS news sources, placing VoIP calls, and even playing a little Quake 2. Now, we've assembled a new video demonstrating one of the most quirky hacks you can pull off with Nokia's little handheld computer: assembling a functional GPS tracking system using a Bluetooth GPS receiver and freely-available software.

In this feature, we'll show you how to set up Maemo Mapper, the open-source navigation software, and how to obtain and install the map tile images you'll need to equip your N800 with both street maps and satellite imagery. We'll also see how the N800 compares to Nokia's N95 smart phone, which carries onboard GPS hardware and mapping software.

Download SquadHands-on: GPS with Maemo Mapper on the N800 originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 17 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gpshardwarehowtointernet tabletInternetTabletmapn800navigationWed, 17 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[More Google HTC phone rumors]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/08/29/more-google-htc-phone-rumors/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/08/29/more-google-htc-phone-rumors/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/08/29/more-google-htc-phone-rumors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

More Google HTC phone rumorsAnd the rumors keep rolling in on Google's phone development. This magical device that will be host to Google's powerful services like Gmail and Search while on the go. This time a person inside HTC has confirmed the development of the device.

The rumors specify that the Gphone will be shipping from Taiwan, and is scheduled to launch Q1 of 2008. The team at Google has been going over the current 20 HTC models on the market and finalizing its handset design. Gphone will have a specially built version of Google Maps, just as the iPhone does, with built in GPS compatibility. Previous reports stated that the device would not have GPS, and that it would support both 3G and EDGE platforms. Gmail and Calendar will be present, with Google Talk becoming part of the phone in a VoIP mode. As for the operating system on the Gphone, the insider said it would use Windows Mobile 6, however some think that a Linux OS would be more realistic. As for price, there have been buzzing's that the device would stay in the range of only $100. Will it be unlocked? We will have to wait and see, but chances of that are fairly slim.

View Poll

Download SquadMore Google HTC phone rumors originally appeared on Download Squad on Wed, 29 Aug 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>calendargmailgooglegphonegpshandheldhtclinuxmobileosphonesearchwindows mobileWindowsMobileWed, 29 Aug 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dev Chair : Geeks are not Apple's target with the iPhone]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/07/17/dev-chair-geeks-are-not-apples-target-with-the-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/07/17/dev-chair-geeks-are-not-apples-target-with-the-iphone/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/07/17/dev-chair-geeks-are-not-apples-target-with-the-iphone/#commentsFiled under: ,


This last Saturday I had the good fortune of being in the middle of a passionate debate between Roy Singham and another ThoughtWorker over iPhone vs. other smartphones. Roy argued that the iPhone is not the game changing device that most people claim it to be because his Nokia N95E90 smartphones can do more and better. The discussion was cut short due to scheduling pressure but it got me thinking, why do people lust after iPhone more than other smartphones? Is it because of the large touch screen? Is it because of the Safari browser? Is it because the iPhone is a video iPod and a cell phone? Or is it all just hype?

Continue reading Dev Chair : Geeks are not Apple's target with the iPhone

Download SquadDev Chair : Geeks are not Apple's target with the iPhone originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 17 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exchangegoogle mapGoogleMapgpsipodn95nokiathoughtworkswwdcyoutubeTue, 17 Jul 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Location based photo browsing with Yahoo Zurfer]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/06/12/location-based-photo-browsing-with-yahoo-zurfer/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/06/12/location-based-photo-browsing-with-yahoo-zurfer/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/06/12/location-based-photo-browsing-with-yahoo-zurfer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

yahoo zurfer location based photo browsing

Zurfer is straight out of the Yahoo! Research Berkeley facility. This handheld application is a location based photo browser. What it is in basic terms is Flickr for your mobile device.

The Zurfer application is currently being developed in the Yahoo research labs, and will -- when loaded on mobile phones -- showcase photos taken around you based on current gps co-ordinates. You can also pull in the latest photos from friends, take photos and add them to your Flickr collection, and perform searches in Flickr for images using the mobile software.

The Zurfer application is in testing phases, and could quite possibly contain bugs, so download at your own risk. It is available, and has been tested on Nokia S60, Motorola RAZR V3X and a few other devices.

Download SquadLocation based photo browsing with Yahoo Zurfer originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basedberkeleybrowsingdevicegpslabslocationmobile phoneMobilePhonephotoresearchyahoozurferTue, 12 Jun 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google phone out by late 2007]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/04/19/google-phone-out-by-late-2007/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/04/19/google-phone-out-by-late-2007/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/04/19/google-phone-out-by-late-2007/#commentsFiled under: ,

google phoneHTC, the company that has supposedly been hard at work manufacturing the Google phone apparently has a date for shipping the finished product. According to the handsets component makers, the official ship date will be the end of 2007, and could reach as high as one million units for the first run.

Unfortunately the handset will not have GPS functionality; it will support 3G and EDGE platforms. The top features of the phone will include preinstalled Gmail and Google Search functionality.

This device is expected to hit European telecom providers first, possibly Orange, before hitting North American soil.

[via digitimes]

Download SquadGoogle phone out by late 2007 originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 19 Apr 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gdeviceedgegmailgooglegpshandsethtcmobilephonesearchThu, 19 Apr 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Test drive a Dash powered by Yahoo]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/04/09/test-drive-a-dash-powered-by-yahoo/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/04/09/test-drive-a-dash-powered-by-yahoo/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/04/09/test-drive-a-dash-powered-by-yahoo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

yahoo local on gpsHow would you like to take a test drive one of the only GPS devices that is powered by Yahoo's Local search? The Dash team is looking for you!

We first wrote about Dash, the first internet connected automotive navigation system back in early January. This GPS device, powered by Yahoo Local Search, was once only available as a test in the San Francisco Bay area for 200 individuals. Dash has opened up recruiting and is looking for 2000 frustrated commuters. Heavy commuters and mobile gadget enthusiasts are preferred to test the device on their own terrain and traffic conditions across the U.S.

If you are interested in seeing what Yahoo Local can do for your commuting in your car or truck, check out www.Dash.net and fill out the survey.

Download SquadTest drive a Dash powered by Yahoo originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 09 Apr 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commutedashgpsinternetlocalnavigationsearchyahooMon, 09 Apr 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GooPs brings real-time tracking to Google Earth]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/03/15/goops-brings-real-time-tracking-to-google-earth/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/03/15/goops-brings-real-time-tracking-to-google-earth/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/03/15/goops-brings-real-time-tracking-to-google-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


GooPs lets you follow live GPS data from your personal tracking device navigation gadget live in Google Earth. We'll admit, that's a neat trick, but it's not really newsworthy. What makes GooPs interesting is the ability to connect multiple GooPs users together and watch each other move in real-time.

By color coding tracked objects, you can instantly get a feel not only for where your friends are but how fast they're moving. We didn't immediately have access to a GPS device but, the developer promises easy install and configuration. It's like a 3D Twitter for your GPS!

Download SquadGooPs brings real-time tracking to Google Earth originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 15 Mar 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freewareGoogle EarthGoogleEarthGPSGPS 3DGPS 3d displayGPS toysGPS trackingGps3dGps3dDisplayGpsToysGpsTrackingnewsThu, 15 Mar 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Google Maps now available for Windows Mobile users]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/02/01/google-maps-now-available-for-windows-mobile-users/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/02/01/google-maps-now-available-for-windows-mobile-users/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/02/01/google-maps-now-available-for-windows-mobile-users/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

google maps for windows mobile usersGoogle has just released a new version of their Google Maps for Mobile application for Windows Mobile users. What is it good for?
  • Checking out real-time traffic congestion sites.
  • Getting detailed directions with step by step instructions.
  • Saving favorite places or routes.
  • Local business searches with contact information.
  • Enhanced business information including more details on businesses, with hours of operation, and amenities etc.
  • Interactive maps with the ability to zoom in and out, move in all directions, and switch to satellite imagery mode.
  • Monitor your data consumption in real time, so you know how many kbs you're ripping through.
The Windows Mobile Device has GPS-enabled maps for Windows Mobile 2003 and higher versions. You can download the application straight from the web and sync up, or visit www.google.com/gmm. Google Maps for Mobile is also available for Palms, Blackberrys, Motorolas, Nokias, and a ton of other devices.

Download SquadGoogle Maps now available for Windows Mobile users originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 01 Feb 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>googlegpslocalmapssearchwindows mobileWindowsMobileThu, 01 Feb 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yahoo! Local Search in your auto]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/01/04/yahoo-local-search-in-your-auto/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/01/04/yahoo-local-search-in-your-auto/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2007/01/04/yahoo-local-search-in-your-auto/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

dash express with yahoo local searchYahoo! is teaming up with Dash Express, makers of the first internet connected automotive navigation system, to bring users Yahoo! Local Search straight from their GPS. Is this a new feature for the GPS industry? It could be! So how does it work? Users simply enter their local search terms for products, services, or businesses into the Dash Express, and Dash instantly pulls in the results. The results are sorted and presented in an address card format to users. When a local result is then chosen from the list, the Dash Express instantly routes the GPS to the destination. This sounds like an extremely useful application, I cant wait to see it in action, its bound to take the GPS market by storm.

Dash Express will be available in the spring of 2007 in California only, then released out to the rest of the nation in the fall. No word on the cost of the unit. If you are attending CES this year, you can also check them out in Las Vegas at booth #9841.

Download SquadYahoo! Local Search in your auto originally appeared on Download Squad on Thu, 04 Jan 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dashdash expressDashExpressgpslocal searchLocalSearchsearchtrafficyahooThu, 04 Jan 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Google phone - coming soon?]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/12/18/the-google-phone-coming-soon/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/12/18/the-google-phone-coming-soon/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/12/18/the-google-phone-coming-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

google phoneIs it true? Could Google be working on a mobile phone? Om Malik has reported that according to the Observer of London, they are doing just that. Google has supposedly met with Orange in the UK about a partnership worth a few billion dollars that could make it easier for users to search wherever they are. The phones are rumored to be branded by Google, but would also have an Orange logo on the device. HTC, specialist in PDAs, is said to be the manufacturer of the device.

This team of software experts, forward thinking mobile telecom company, and leading edge device manufacturer almost puts a damper on Apple's rumored iPhone news, but will surely create something fantastic for users. Imagine lightning fast searches providing exact location-based results in the palm of your hand. This device has the potential to be a huge success from all three companies that could be involved. Of course this is all speculation at the moment until an official release comes out, but this sure offers some salivation for Google and handheld device lovers alike.

Download SquadThe Google phone - coming soon? originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 18 Dec 2006 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegooglegpshandheld deviceHandheldDevicehtciphoneorangephonesearchMon, 18 Dec 2006 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Track your adventures with EveryTrail]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/11/07/track-your-adventures-with-everytrail/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/11/07/track-your-adventures-with-everytrail/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/11/07/track-your-adventures-with-everytrail/#commentsFiled under: , ,

everytrailEveryTrail is a nicely designed application that you can use to map out and track your trips. Waypoints, photos, and trip notes can be easily dropped in a Google Map.

How does it all work? Start off by creating an account. After that is complete, grab a copy of the EveryTrail GPS Uploader. When your GPS device is connected to your PC, it can be synced up with your choice of which waypoints you want to upload, bringing you into the Create a Trip section. All of your notes and photos can instantly be uploaded and tied to the point you specify. Then, when it's all ready, users can share their travels with friends and family.

Check out some interface shots after the jump...

Continue reading Track your adventures with EveryTrail

Download SquadTrack your adventures with EveryTrail originally appeared on Download Squad on Tue, 07 Nov 2006 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureeverytrailgoogle mapsGoogleMapsgpsmapmap apiMapApiTue, 07 Nov 2006 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Flickr adds mapping, geotagging]]>http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/08/28/flickr-adds-mapping-geotagging/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/08/28/flickr-adds-mapping-geotagging/http://downloadsquad.switched.com/2006/08/28/flickr-adds-mapping-geotagging/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Flickr map
Today Flickr seriously pumped up its geotagging support and added Yahoo! Maps integration. The announcement in the Flickr blog links to a few screencast tutorials that make geotagging, i.e. associating photos with particular locations on the map, look pretty easy. It's done through the Flash Ajax-based Organizr tool, and basically you select a bunch of your photos and then drag them to the location you want to tag them with on the map. Similarly, you can explore other people's photos with a new map interface. You can go to flickr.com/map to see everybody's photos and search by location and/or tag. Naturally, it's all done through the Yahoo! Maps API, which means you can zoom and pan around as well as see a satellite photo or hybrid view of the map. The Flickr update also includes integration with Upcoming.org: you can now tag your photos with a special tag for an Upcoming.org event and they'll be displayed on the Upcoming page for that event. Neat.

[Via Waxy.org]

Download SquadFlickr adds mapping, geotagging originally appeared on Download Squad on Mon, 28 Aug 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flickrgeocodinggeotaggeotagginggpsmapmappingphotographyphotosupcomingupcoming.orgyahooyahoomapsMon, 28 Aug 2006 17:30:00 EST