Google launched it’s own child tracking app today which uses both GPS and Cell tower triangulation to plot a mobile device location.
Google Latitude is currently available on a few mobile devices (GPhone included) and it due to launch on the iPhone “very soon”.
The idea behind Latitude is that you’re able to network with friends and find out where there are using their mobile devices. As Google puts it:
- See where your friends are and what they are up to
- Quickly contact them with SMS, IM, or a phone call
- Maintain complete control over your privacy
Also, of course you can track your child and spouse should you feel the need.
All of your friends’ activity can be plugged right into Google Maps right on your Mobile Device or computer.
It’s a good idea and I think Google can pull it off where so many other Social Location networks like Loopt, BrightKite, Yelp and more haven’t managed to really get it together.
The thing I’m most curious about is how this will work on the iPhone. Applications only work as long as the application is running on the iPhone, close the app you loose your connection to the app and thus can’t be tracked, right? (video after the jump)
More at the Gmail Blog
