Loopt. iCyberstalk
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Silicon Alley Insider has reported that the Social Networking service Loopt, has entered a partnership with AT&T, which will permit the company to monitor a user’s location (With Permission), after installing the Loopt application on the iPhone. The application can run a process in the background, to enable the service to track your location.
Via a deal with AT&T, and with your permission, Loopt will be able to access your location all the time you have a network connection, even when you’re not actively using the iPhone app. (The app isn’t running in the background; it’s working server-to-server.) Loopt cofounder and CEO Sam Altman tells us that it’s been users’ most requested feature.
However, even though the application isn’t running at all times, AT&T can still get your location if you have the application installed on your phone.
Loopt was highlighted at the App Store launch last year, with it’s capabilities highlighted as being able to track friends, as well as having general social networking site features. The idea is nothing new however, with services such as Google Lattitude already having this functionality. However, with the service being able to be run in the background, Loopt will be able to recieve your position after a 1 to 2 hour update. There could be more features to be developed in the future, such as a better way to track friends through a more regular server update, or it could be used to assist Augmented Reality software.
Always-on, real-time location information is critical for the future of location services, Altman tells us. You’ll be able to get alerts when you’re near a person or place you’re interested in, for example. You can build a “life graph” of all the places you’ve gone, he adds. (Maybe a running map?) And — Altman doesn’t say this, but we’re making the next logical step, here — this opens the door to easier location-based advertising, promotions, etc.
Loopt is offering a free 14-day trial of the background service for 5,000 users. Always-on service beyond the initial trial period will cost $3.99 per month and will appear on users’ AT&T bills.
A word of caution however. Of course, the service requires your permission to track your location, but it’s advised that users be careful where they stray, or if their phone is on or off. It’s possible that your jealous spouse could be tracking you every second at work. Remember what you’re getting into, before you sign up…
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