Maps Maps Maps

OpenStreetMap I see the attraction but what’s the point… like wikipedia (which I love, I think it’s really good and helpful in finding things out) OpenStreetMap is a free editable map of the whole world it allows you to view, edit and use geographical data in a collaborative way, using data from portable GPS devices and aerial photography to create maps of certain areas. Its good but there’s no need for it when you have Google Maps which is a million times better!  

I thought Map Tube was a fun way to look at some information using a map of great Britain and highlighting areas ones I found interesting were: ‘Assault using Knife or Sharp Object – 2006/07’ and ‘BBC Look East: Anti-social Behaviour’ but there’s loads to take a look at some not as interesting or as funny. 

I also took a look at ‘Layar’ and ‘Wickitude’ which are both very cool! Basically you download the app onto your phone (only work on the Iphone 3GS which is really crap) then when you open up your camera and point it at a landmark little pop-ups layered over the top of what would be the photo appear giving you more information about the place which is so cool! I really like this which ‘Layar’ showed on their website: 

“Storytelling: Beatles Tour 

Abbey Road in London has become famous for housing the studio where the Beatles recorded most of their albums, including their final and most successful one, “Abbey Road“. Now it is possible to see Ringo, Paul, John and George back on Abbey Road, simply by pointing your phone at the zebra crossing. After having taken some screenshots with your friend standing next to the Beatles in 3D, you can proceed to the next location on the Beatles discovery tour, which covers 42 locations. The next destination only appears after the previous location has been visited.” (Text and photo taken from Layar)

So ‘Wikitude and Layar’ are both really cool but I think it sucks that its limited to so few phone and that other phones can’t do this.