14 DAY TRIAL // The number of applications available for Windows Phone 7 devices on launch day, which is today, October 21st for users in Europe and Asia-Pacific, is not that large, the software solutions are as appealing as they can be.
We already mentioned various applications available for the platform, including Facebook, Adobe Reader, YouTube, Shazam, or games like BEJEWELED LIVE, Rocket Riot or Frogger, but other great software solutions are also there, including an OpenTable app, or a dedicated eBay mobile client.
“OpenTable on Windows Phone 7 provides a well-designed reservation experience. Search allows the user to find restaurants by name or location. The “tonight for 2” view, unique to Windows Phone 7, gives the user immediate options for quick planning,” the application is described in a post on the Windows Team Blog.
“Restaurant profile pages provide useful information including price range, restaurant description, and the ability to favorite a restaurant for easy access later. With a quick swipe, see reviews from other customers,” the said post continues.
The application takes advantage of the built-in GPS receiver inside the mobile phone and provides users with info on restaurants in the area, as well as with directions to the place's address.
Users can sign in to find info on upcoming reservation, favorite restaurants, view their Dining Rewards Points, and more.
The software was built using Microsoft's Location Service, and incorporates Bing Maps Control to offer a better mapping experience, with easy access to turn-by-turn directions from their location.
As for the new eBay Mobile application, it was developed specifically for handsets running under the Windows Phone 7 operating system.
“Using a streamlined interface that's as elegant as it is practical, eBay members can search, bid, and check their activity on the go. Buyers can sneak in that last-minute bid on a hard-to-find item, sellers can check on their sales, and act on time-sensitive information on the spot without a computer,” the said post reads.
The app comes with exclusive Windows Phone 7 features, delivering notifications on all auction items, not to mention that it comes with Live Tile integration so that users know instantly when a new offer is received.
With the new software solution, one can get immediate updates on watched items, including auction ending soon, outbid notifications, and more.
“eBay Mobile takes full advantage of the unique application platform features of Windows Phone 7. The app effectively incorporates Smart Design with its Panorama and Pivot Controls, and delivers instant updates through Live Tile push notification,” the blog post continues.
The solution comes with Toast notification, which works as some sort of an extension of eBay's auction notifications, so that Windows Phone 7 users can stay connected with their accounts at all times.
