Tuesday, October 27. 2009

Halloween Geo News Blitz!

First off, MapQuest's PR firm shares (Mapquest blog):

MapQuest makes finding the closest Haunted Houses easy with its new ghost icon search button within the On-Map Search Tool (located on the right hand side of the map). Users simply click on the icon to start planning their Halloween celebrations. Not only will this search show you locations, but it also includes a link to the Haunted House’s Web site (when available) for hours and other information about the spooky haunt.

Next, Zillow helps predict the best ROI for candy (most candy, least walking) for Seattle and LA (Zillow blog, via WSJ). From Zillow PR specialist Whitney Tyner:

Based on those variables [home values alongside additional data on population density, neighborhood walkability, and local crime], this Index represents neighborhoods that will provide the most candy, with the least walking, and minimum safety risks.

MSN Direct to Shut Down at End of 2011

Microsoft noted considering shutting down the data service that powers live local data (traffic, weather, gas prices) for some GPS units (among other devices) back in May (APB coverage). Now the official word the service will shut down Dec 31, 2011.

Devices that use it will continue to work, they just won't have access to the data sent over FM signal. The system is pretty old (2004) and was part of the SPOT, or Smart Personal Objects Technology, initiative which now operates in 134 cities.

- Radio World

Nat Geo Asks Senators to Hand Draw State Maps for Online Gallery

It sounds like a fun project, but of course, some aides are concerned their bosses may make some errors. I think it's a great way to get at the idea of "Mental Maps." The article noted below includes the text of the Nat Geo invitation.

- US News

Podcast: The State of Augmented Reality

What is augmented reality and how does it relate to geospatial technology? Is it "just cool" or are there real uses for it? Further, is there any money it? Our editors offer up definitions, uses and suggestions for geospatial companies waiting on the sidelines.

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Missed any podcasts? Want to subscribe via iTunes, Yahoo, etc? Here's the index.

Cheesesteak Shop Plans for 2030 DC Metro with Map on Menu

This is just curious and interesting, as we all ponder authoritative data questions. Two folks wrote in to Greater Greater Washington to report that the Metro map on the back of the sandwich shop's menu shows stops that don't currently exist - because the map is of a future version of the DC transit lines.

The story gets more interesting when you read the comments. One person suggests the map is in use since unlike the current one which is under copyright, this one is under a creative commons license. Another writer thinks it's an awareness campaign (if we believe it will be built...)

- Greater Greater Washington