Microsoft’s new LBS for BlackBerry
Yeah, you read the headline correctly. Microsoft, purveyors of everything Windows Mobile, have just released a public version of TellMe, their new Location Based Application with voice recognition for the BlackBerry platform. TellMe is a cool little piece of software taking your GPS coordinates and providing you with search results, movie times, restaurant reviews, traffic info, and more based on your current location. As an added bonus, all of this information can be accessed with simple voice instructions, allowing you to use the software on the road without risking your spotless driving record. Currently, the software is supported on all GPS-equipped ‘Berrys, including the 8800, 8820, 8830, 8310, and we assume the 8110.
Swweeet! I just ordered my 8310 – GPS upgrade from the 8300. I’m definitely installing this app when I have the phone tomorrow.
too bad it doesn’t work on my VZW 8130. it said my phone is not supported. hopefully they’ll add support for it soon.
Does not work for the 8110 yet
Verizon is illegally crippling the GPS chipset on its Devices.
from PNT.GOV
Provide on a continuous, worldwide basis civil space-based, positioning, navigation, and timing services FREE OF DIRECT USER FEES for civil, commercial, and scientific uses, and for homeland security through the Global Positioning System and its augmentations, and provide open, free access to information necessary to develop and build equipment to use these services.
The GPS “signal” is free, why is Verizon charging to use GPS through VZnavigator?
Ok what gives, if it’s made by the guys that do Windows Mobile then can somebody tell me why they don’t have support for Windows Mobile? Like what the hell???
Sorry, Verizon is not *illegally* crippling the gps. They can do what they want with their device. Don’t believe me? Where are the lawsuits? No class-actions. As long as you have a choice, it’s not illegal.
@Jeff B
They do have something like it for WM, Live Search, which has voice recognition (as input though, not as a control) and uses GPS to center on your location. This seems like it’s just a prettyfied version of it.
Will this be available for my gps equipped 8703e on sprint?? I would love this app.
@phreqd, there is a class action lawsuit, although it is frivolous and will likely result in nothing for the consumers. VZW uses BREW to disable the inherent GPS functionality and
favors their “secure” means of providing GPS services. They use the disguise of “security” to charge for a service that would otherwise be free. Google, Microsoft, etc. Have the ability to license and integrate the VZW GPS functionality, although since they offer free value-add services, its highly unlikely we’ll see that happening.
does att charge you that 20 dollars for activating your phones gps when you use tellme?