Microsoft Releases MapPoint Web Service 3.5

Microsoft’s MapPoint® Web Service 3.5 was launched today. It’s a web application that can be used by other web sites and enterprise applications. One of the features the update includes is better support for mobile applications. Maps optimized for the smaller screens of Smartphones and Pocket PCs now can be created, providing better map display on these devices. Now, why doesn’t Mappoint.msn.com use this? I remember seeing a beta version of Mobile Mappoint on MSN …

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Disney thumbs its nose at Apple with Microsoft deal

Since Disney lost it’s partnership with Pixar (lead by Steve Jobs), today they announced a partnership with Microsoft to provide digital media content on a variety of home entertainment systems, portable media players, PDA’s and mobile phones via Windows Media. Originally published on Pocketnow on February 9, 2004. More Smartphone News articles from the Pocketnow archive.

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Enhanced 911 program requires location-aware mobile phones

By December 31, 2005, all mobile phone providers in the US will be required to provide the location of a 911 caller within 50-100 meters. Since location-aware services need to be implemented for E911 anyway, mobile phone providers are going to add some new location based services. This will give you the ability to see where your friends are, recieve instant messages from your favorite stores, etc. AT&T has had it’s “Find Friends” service available …

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Beyond 2004

Beyond 2004 Here’s an article in PC Magazine that mentions some “Seismic Shifts” in certain portable computing technologies. The article is mainly aimed at notebook computers, but the technologies could certainly apply to other things like Pocket PCs, wall paper, etc. The article refers to Toshiba’s methanol fuel cell technology, which will power notebooks this year. NEC will also be implementing fuel cells in their notebooks in 2004. Regarding displays, there’s a lot of hype …

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WiFi network discovered on Mars

Just kidding. But NASA is currently in the testing phases for deploying a WiFi mesh network in future Mars missions. “In one scenario, astronauts would communicate during walks on the surface using Wi-Fi-enabled portable computers sewn into their space suits. In another, crew would deploy swarms of Wi-Fi-enabled robot vehicles to explore for water or perform other scientific experiments. “The wireless technology would allow them to transmit data back to earth in real time. Scientists …

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