Location-based input is the next big thing Mar17 '08

Previously I discussed geospatial aggregation and how other services can use geodata to provide a much more personalized and fine-tuned experience.

Here are some more examples of applications leveraging your location to better enhance your experience. For these examples, we'll use Fire Eagle as our location-based proxy. In each situation, the application or client would reach out to Fire Eagle to grab your current location.

Google Maps default location

Imagine every time you loaded Google Maps in a browser, it knew exactly where you were, and used that as the default location.

Google Maps on iPhone

Even better, Google Maps on your iPhone could ascertain the same information, and immediately pinpoint you in the right spot. Driving directions have never been easier when you don't have to supply a starting point - just your destination.

(I realize this is already a reality with the iPhone's "map yourself" feature.)

Flickr geotagging

Whenever you upload a photo to Flickr, it automatically obtains geotags and is placed on the Flickr Map. This is especially useful when uploading from a mobile device while on the go.

Relevant advertising

You're looking for a place to eat, but you're not sure what's in the area. A handy iPhone app or web service could display relevant ads from nearby places.

Overall

Location-based input is going to be a powerful new way to connect your world.

Categories: Geotagging , Trends

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matthom is published and produced by Matt Thommes - an independent publishing enthusiast, mobile blogger, content creator, informative writer, web developer from a suburb of Chicago. Never one to conform, Matt intends to promote the effect the web has on our lives, in an effort to intensify, instruct, and clarify all that is happening around us.