AIM users soon to be able to see friends' locations
AIM instant messaging users will soon be able to take advantage of a new plug-in that will be better able to ascertain their geographical position.
The new piece of kit, which had been created by AOL using Skyhook Wireless technology, can pinpoint locations by finding neighbouring hot spots.
This means that only PCs with Wi-Fi capabilities can be linked up with the new system.
The new technology will mean that AIM users will be better able to produce electronic maps of where in the world their friends are at any one time.
Users will also be able to receive alerts when one of their friends is in the vicinity.
"At any given time, AIM users can now see where their buddies are, map their location and quickly find out how far they are from each other so they can meet in person," commented Marcien Jenckes, the senior vice president of messaging and social media at AOL.
AIM also has many attractions for internet service providers, as it will allow them to alter their advertising and services to match the user's location, with local weather forecasts and the name of a local restaurant displayed prominently, for example.
Tuesday, 20th March 2007
| Provider | Package | Speed | Download Limit | Setup Cost | Monthly Cost | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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AOL Broadband - Wireless + E&W | Up To 8Mbps† | 10GB | FREE | £4.99 | |
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AOL Broadband - Wireless Flexi + E&W | Up To 8Mbps† | 10GB | £29.99 | £4.99 | |
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AOL Broadband - Wireless Plus + Laptop | Up To 8Mbps† | 40GB | £14.99 | £19.99 | |
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AOL Broadband - Wireless Plus + PlayStation 3 | Up To 8Mbps† | 40GB | £14.99 | £19.99 |
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** All Costs excludes the cost of line rental.
†
Speeds in excess of 2 meg are only available in certain areas. Top
speeds vary significantly, particularly according to how far away
you live from the exchange.
If your line won’t support our fastest broadband speed we’ll
give you the best available. The speed you actually get can also vary
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