14 DAY TRIAL // Location Based Technologies, a provider of personal locator devices and services for families, just announced that Google Android smartphone users can now download the PocketFinder service for their handsets.
According to Dave Morse, CEO of Location Based Technologies, the company has fully tested this service and is ready to release it worldwide to the just-launched T-Mobile G1, the first mobile phone to use the Android open standard mobile device platform developed by the Open Handset Alliance. Ultimately, the service will integrate with the forthcoming PocketFinder location devices.
“T-Mobile G1 smartphone users now have the ability to stay connected and benefit from every PocketFinder feature including real-time location, zone and speed alerts, instant messaging, and travel history, for one low service fee,” Morse explained. “In addition, our new Android-based application will eventually support other smartphones and smartphone platforms as we intensify our development efforts to make this enhancement available to their customers and expand our coverage of the global marketplace.”
The Android-based PocketFinder service is now available for a 15-day free; afterwards, it will be offered for $4.95/month per phone through the month of November. The price will be the same as long as the account is kept current and in good standing. You may download it from the developer's website or from Android Market.
The service will allow Android smartphone users to integrate with the PocketFinder family of products when U.S. sales begin. PocketFinder and PetFinder devices use advanced technology to help families stay connected. As the smallest known single-board GSM/GPS devices, they easily fit into a pocket, purse or backpack and can be accessed via the Internet, cell phone or landline to show their exact location in real time.
In addition, the devices include several advanced features such as designating customizable alert areas as electronic “fences” to notify when a family member or pet leaves or enters a specified area. The devices can even track vehicle speeds to encourage safe driving decisions.