Thursday 4 June 2009

New app for finding nearby in android

I have always thought that it would not take long to use the gps and database of google to search local places. Below is the latest app from google which i have just downloaded. With the latest cupcake or ver 1.5 the app works quick to pinpoint your position then to find which service you need.

An example is to find the nearest chemist. I tapped on the plus. carried out a search and within a few seconds had a list of the nearest chemist. Clicked on the more info and went to the site. All opening times and location.

have a read of the google review:


Places Directory app for Android

Posted: 02 Jun 2009 11:58 AM PDT

As an engineer based in Taipei, I frequently travel to Google headquarters in Mountain View. When I'm there, I'm always looking for local businesses to try out, like coffee shops and restaurants. I also forget where the banks and ATM's are. While Search and Maps can help me find the information I need, it's nice to have the option to browse a directory of places, as well. For instance, if I need some money, do I search for an ATM or a bank? If I had a short list of business categories to choose from, I could just scan it to choose the right one. After talking to some colleagues, we decided to devote our 20% time to building an Android application that figures out what places are nearby and arranges them in a directory format. Friends and colleagues tested the app and found it handy, so we decided to launch "Places Directory" on Android Market as a Google Labs product.

As the name implies, Places Directory allows you to browse nearby places in categories like Restaurants, Movie Theaters, Hotels and Banks. You'll see distance and directions to the destination, and if you tap on the listing, we'll show ratings and photos. You can also call the business or view its location on Google Maps.



To download Places Directory to your Android-powered phone, search for "Places Directory" on Android Market. We currently support US English and Chinese. Try it out and let us know what you think by providing feedback in the comments below. In the meantime, I look forward to going back to Mountain View and finding some good local restaurants.

Monday 1 June 2009

Android reboot for sound not working same as windows ??

I had sound issues on my android. I tried to play last fm and my music stored on sd card but no sound was out of the speakers or headphones. Thinking it was hardware i checked all the connections but found no issues.
Then thinking about window pcs and the normal reboot which cures a lot of issues....tried a reboot. It is the first time I have had to reboot in version 1.5 or cupcake and have been very pleased with all the apps which seem to be working smoother, quicker and up to now with not one reboot....well now to cure the sound a hard press on the power off button. Wait 30 seconds or more and start up. Tried lastfm and my music and sound is out of my speakers...strange hope this is not a regular occurence.
Vinny