iPhone Safari to Support Geolocation, Google Latitude Demoed [Archive]

MacRumors

May 31, 2009, 10:38 PM

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/05/31/iphone-safari-to-support-geolocation-google-latitude-demoed/)

ComputerWorld points out (http://blogs.computerworld.com/iphones_safari_browser_to_include_geolocation_0) a little publicized fact that iPhone 3.0's Safari browser will support Geolocation services. This means that websites will be able to request your current location (if you give them permission). How many times have you had to put in your Zip code in your browser to tell it where you are? Looking for restaurants? Bank branches? Auto repair shops? This can now be built into the browser. This certainly hasn't been a secret to developers who were notified (http://www.nogood.it/wp/2009/03/18/iphone-os-30-the-next-step/) by Apple in March of the support: Safari also supports the Geolocation JavaScript classes, which work with the onboard location services to retrieve the current location of the device.The possibilities, however, came to the forefront last week when Google demoed (via SlashGear) (http://www.slashgear.com/next-iphone-will-have-google-latitude-build-in-2744942/) their Latitude location service (http://www.google.com/latitude/intro.html) on the iPhone through a web browser alone.

Google said they will be launching the Latitude website for iPhone after the 3.0 OS is released.

Article Link: iPhone Safari to Support Geolocation, Google Latitude Demoed (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/05/31/iphone-safari-to-support-geolocation-google-latitude-demoed/)

leandromp

May 31, 2009, 10:40 PM

Is that the new iPhone? it looks like it.

ShiftyPig

May 31, 2009, 10:42 PM

Is that the new iPhone? it looks like it.

There's a new iPhone coming out?

This is getting a bit tedious, front page updates on features that have been in the beta.

MikhailT

May 31, 2009, 10:45 PM

Is that the new iPhone? it looks like it.
It's just a new Safari Mobile version. It's been updated to Safari 4 webkit version, which supports a lot of the HTML5 stuff which includes the geolocation stuff. it'll also support the new Nitro JS engine that's in Safari 4, which means it'll be even faster than the 2.2.1 Safari Mobile, noticeable faster.

twoodcc

May 31, 2009, 10:46 PM

seems nice. though with the iphone, you can already do this inside apps

skwoytek

May 31, 2009, 10:47 PM

I just wish I could set Location Services: ON in the Settings>General menu and be done with it. Every app still seems to ask me if it's okay to use location settings.

mrbrightside623

May 31, 2009, 10:48 PM

Is that the new iPhone? it looks like it.

I know what you're saying.... its falls in with the rumor the other day that the outer part of the new iPhone is black instead of chrome. I caught that too >_< maybe thats why they moved the phone out so quick haha

-Tony

dagamer34

May 31, 2009, 10:51 PM

I tried this out today (well, the Google Maps, not Google Latitude) on my iPhone 3G with the iPhone 3.0 OS beta. It works great. The accuracy is the same as what you get with GPS (in fact, it uses GPS coordinates).

Even in Firefox 3.5 beta 4, it's stunning how accurate the IP geolocator was! It found me down to the leasing office of my apartment on my street (living in an apartment complex, that's probably the best it can do).

Website: http://htmlfive.appspot.com

Peace

May 31, 2009, 10:56 PM

I just wish I could set Location Services: ON in the Settings>General menu and be done with it. Every app still seems to ask me if it's okay to use location settings.

That can be a good thing security-wise. Watching the video makes me think it could be a new iPhone or it could just be a prototype or an internal Google testing device.

It does look different. No chrome lining and it looks squarer.

hefeglass

May 31, 2009, 10:59 PM

its probably just a 3g with a case

also:

I tried this out today (well, the Google Maps, not Google Latitude) on my iPhone 3G with the iPhone 3.0 OS beta. It works great. The accuracy is the same as what you get with GPS (in fact, it uses GPS coordinates).

Even in Firefox 3.5 beta 4, it's stunning how accurate the IP geolocator was! It found me down to the leasing office of my apartment on my street (living in an apartment complex, that's probably the best it can do).

Website: http://htmlfive.appspot.com

what exactly did you try with google maps and os 3.0?

i just tried maps.google.com through safari but didnt find any way to use the location...any tips?

infernohellion

May 31, 2009, 11:11 PM

Why can't it be built in to Maps?

ruinfx

May 31, 2009, 11:23 PM

Why can't it be built in to Maps?

doing it this way allows them to make one web app that can be used on the iphone, android and webos.

also, the current situation does not allow google to update maps when new features come out because apple controls it. latitude has been out for a few months now but the iphone has been left out because apple has not updated the maps app. if its a website then google can provide improvements without apple holding them back.

DELLsFan

May 31, 2009, 11:32 PM

I just wish I could set Location Services: ON in the Settings>General menu and be done with it. Every app still seems to ask me if it's okay to use location settings.

Yeah, that's annoying to me too. One answer to rule them all - would be nice. :)

arn

May 31, 2009, 11:39 PM

doing it this way allows them to make one web app that can be used on the iphone, android and webos.

Also means you don't have to wait for a firmware update for the app to get updated.

arn

designgeek

May 31, 2009, 11:44 PM

ivladster

May 31, 2009, 11:47 PM

That can be a good thing security-wise. Watching the video makes me think it could be a new iPhone or it could just be a prototype or an internal Google testing device.

It does look different. No chrome lining and it looks squarer.

Its a skin. Look at the distance from the screen edge to the buttons. Too big. So its a skin.

Why can't it be built in to Maps?

It probably will be build in, or Google will have separate app.

kas23

Jun 1, 2009, 12:26 AM

It probably will be build in, or Google will have separate app.

I would hope it was built-in, but from this preview, it doesn't look like it. Wishful thinking, though.

I wonder if the Google Lat geolocation services will still work if the Safari App is closed? I wouldn't want to have to have Safari open all the time for this to work.

It probably will be build in, or Google will have separate app.

Or it could just pop-up in their Google Mobile App like they original said it would. Clicking on the "Application" could then bring up a Safari browser within the Google Mobile App itself.

mikeinternet

Jun 1, 2009, 01:02 AM

Regardless of this working in safari. Wouldn't it always work better as a stand alone app?

websyndicate

Jun 1, 2009, 01:25 AM

Regardless of this working in safari. Wouldn't it always work better as a stand alone app?

It might but you are pulling all your data from the web not matter what. Might as well just be a web app as it is right now. Web Apps are a pain sometimes but the google mail web app for iphone is very nice. The nice thing about safari it has many built in things already. Hopefully the new safari will be much faster. Also they do take up a lot less space.

That can be a good thing security-wise. Watching the video makes me think it could be a new iPhone or it could just be a prototype or an internal Google testing device.

It does look different. No chrome lining and it looks squarer.

Just a case looks like. Apple wouldnt slip that much I dont think.

kas23

Jun 1, 2009, 02:15 AM

Wouldn't it always work better as a stand alone app?

Yes, it would. I especially like how he says "in the browser!", like this is actually a good thing.

eastercat

Jun 1, 2009, 02:22 AM

It's a convenient feature to have. However, I'm glad we have the option of turning it off.

madina

Jun 1, 2009, 03:04 AM

Hi All, I lost/had stolen my ipod touch, It pains me to think someone is using it even tho my email address is enscribed on the back.

I would now like to get an iphone but these devices are small expensive and there are lots of dishonest people about, I would like some security on the device.

Rather than the device be rendered useless with the aid of a pin number I would like to locate the device whether it be at home in a public place.
In theory I should be able to do this via my desktop? Remote App anyone?

Makes sense no?

Im guessing that this common sense attitude wont be quickly adopted and that this is only going to be used as a marketing tool to sell advert products to us depending on our location. Thing is the isn't that much good if the device is lost or stolen.

pavenger

Jun 1, 2009, 03:13 AM

The perfect place to describe a new feature is in a tunnel. tunnels have just the right amount of echo...

H$R

Jun 1, 2009, 04:41 AM

The perfect place to describe a new feature is in a tunnel. tunnels have just the right amount of echo...

HAHA, I just thought the same when watching it.

And I bet it's just a 3G with a skin like others say.

kas23

Jun 1, 2009, 04:50 AM

Hi All, I lost/had stolen my ipod touch, It pains me to think someone is using it even tho my email address is enscribed on the back.

That would extremely piss me off too. I feel for you.

virduk

Jun 1, 2009, 05:20 AM

I especially like how he says "in the browser!", like this is actually a good thing.

Well that was part of the whole theme of the keynote (and googles strategy of the browser being the platform and how with HTML5 and other tech that web apps can be just as good as desktop apps.

The Phazer

Jun 1, 2009, 05:41 AM

Nice feature.

But the potential here that Apple's slow updates are causing Google to break off and develop some features of maps in the browser, leaving us with two different types of Google Maps with different features and OS shell integration is *really* potentially very irritating.

Phazer

MvdM

Jun 1, 2009, 05:59 AM

What does this feature add to the GPS already built into the iPhone?

edesignuk

Jun 1, 2009, 06:04 AM

Androids browser does this already, it's neat and has many potential uses. Good to see the iPhone catching up ;) :p

MvdM

Jun 1, 2009, 06:23 AM

Androids browser does this already, it's neat and has many potential uses. Good to see the iPhone catching up ;) :p

Again, what does it add to the gps the iPhone already has?

jhsfosho

Jun 1, 2009, 07:06 AM

Cool feature. I too am glad there is an option to turn it on and off though. Apple probably already knows enough about me as it is.

Max E Verde

Jun 1, 2009, 07:13 AM

I can't believe it took MacRumors this long to post this feature of Safari in 3.0.

I saw a video on ADC on iTunes about implementing Core Location into Web Apps in March.

BTW you have to say yes to locations in Safari then yes to every domain, at least according to the video made while Beta 1 was out.

Edit: Just realized that this info may be in the video, but I am on a slow connection right now so I can't tell

mappyman

Jun 1, 2009, 07:17 AM

Great!!

Exactly what we need for a phone that only has 30-40 MB for free ram.
Expect more crashes and reboots.. and lag !!

Apple why on earth did you not put more RAM in ?

iPhoneNYC

Jun 1, 2009, 07:28 AM

The use of compass seems positive but limited to me. However, I can only believe game app types will find new usage.

michelle21

Jun 1, 2009, 07:29 AM

Well I guess only some of us have to abide by the NDA.

arn

Jun 1, 2009, 07:37 AM

I can't believe it took MacRumors this long to post this feature of Safari in 3.0.

sigh. this is like complaining about posting new Snow Leopard screenshots since it was announced back in 2008.

Google Latitude for iPhone wasn't demoed until last week, so it would have been difficult to post a video of in march.

arn

kdarling

Jun 1, 2009, 08:10 AM

Rather than the device be rendered useless with the aid of a pin number I would like to locate the device whether it be at home in a public place.

Unlike other phones which have hidden third party locator software available, the iPhone doesn't support background tasks. Apple would have to build in such an ability.

If the thief happened to use an app with geolocation that talked to a remote server, you might be able to nail them. Kind of like those idiots who stole a MacBook and then went online with video and the owner saw that they were using it, and tracked them down.

Again, what does it add to the gps the iPhone already has?

1) Browser support means people could write iPhone websites that automatically used your location... once you had authorized it. Search sites would benefit most, as might anywhere that they show directions to their hotel/store/whatever.

2) Google Latitude (http://www.google.com/mobile/default/latitude.html#dc=lato) is a part of Google Maps on all other phones. They said they won't add it to the iPhone's Map; instead they're going to use a website (see #1).

MvdM

Jun 1, 2009, 08:11 AM

Thex1138

Jun 1, 2009, 08:27 AM

It's fair to say that the silver phone edging in this and the apparent HK shots may have been concealed by a black silicon protective sleeve.

W1LLk

Jun 1, 2009, 08:52 AM

Hello boys and girls, does no one see my messages? I was asking something and all people can say is how great this feature is!
Now for the THIRD TIME : what does this 'new' feature do? It shows where you are. The iPhone already did that, so what's new?

Thanks kdarling.

Now tell me how the current iPhones show your location. They DO have GPS, so it must be used in some application.

This feature is great!

Seriously, if you read the article, it's not about the inclusion of GPS which is already on the 2G and soon to be 3G phone, it's about location services being integrated in Safari. This means your browser can communicate location aware information to a server, thus giving you immediate location particular search results, and google maps working online (just like the app). The Lattitude system is basically like google maps and loopt running together in real time, where if enabled, you could see your "buddies" moving down the street. It's WebOS based so that one page can service multiple platforms. Even the google map app on your phone is just displaying a map web page of sorts as you navigate it.

legaleye3000

Jun 1, 2009, 09:20 AM

Feng Shui

Jun 1, 2009, 09:21 AM

I think that's new iPhone. The only thing that comes close to the black bezel is the first generation iPod Touch, but it doesn't have the volume adjustment things on the side (as we can see on this device displayed in the video). Is this actually the next iPhone?

Ugg

Jun 1, 2009, 09:29 AM

I think I'm not going to check mac rumors until day two or three of WWDC because of all of this iPhone crap. A little speculation is harmless, in fact it's the point of the whole site, but it's been blown way out of proportion, every little detail is front page news, literally.

Welcome to the WWDC! It's always a circus around this time. You'd be hard pressed to find any tech or major news website that doesn't have some Apple speculation about now. Frustrating it may be but it's a response to Apple's secrecy. If you think it's bad now, wait until after Tuesday and watch the recriminations fly!

bretm

Jun 1, 2009, 10:57 AM

soundsgoodtome

Jun 1, 2009, 11:55 AM

How many times have you had to put in your Zip code in your browser to tell it where you are? Looking for restaurants? Bank branches? Auto repair shops? This can now be built into the browser.

Zero times. I use the Maps app for that. It makes no sense to use mobile Safari.

Master Chief

Jun 1, 2009, 11:58 AM

Ladies and gentlemen this is the new iPhone

Just download that movie and watch it frame by frame (note the new buttons and front camera LED).

jwolpert

Jun 1, 2009, 01:10 PM

Timing is one of the essential frameworks behind object oriented programming. An application needs to know what triggers a certain event and when.

So regarding Latitude: What triggers my need to see where other people who I may or may not know are? What prompts me to broadcast my position for others to see? And what prompts me reliability to turn off this function when I want privacy (assuming I'm not someone oblivious to living in a privacy-free environment)?

An engineer's answer may be, "Well, we give you all this granular functionality to decide who sees where you are and when." But in my view this ignores the human context in a day-to-day setting, where one is overwhelmed by a constant stream of messages and tasks which we must perform to maintain any number of other objects spinning in our lives. We feel often as though we work for our machines, rather than the other way around.

More on this at TheThreePercent.com (http://thethreepercent.com)

Kwill

Jun 1, 2009, 01:53 PM

I can't believe how careless Apple has become. Every few days a new tidbit is released about the upcoming iPhone. It's as though Steve Jobs himself is providing tips to rumor sites.

ebrunn

Jun 1, 2009, 02:01 PM

Lattitude works even better when its actually allowed background access.:rolleyes:

dan5.5

Jun 1, 2009, 02:28 PM

cool features!!!

H$R

Jun 1, 2009, 02:42 PM

I can't believe how careless Apple has become. Every few days a new tidbit is released about the upcoming iPhone. It's as though Steve Jobs himself is providing tips to rumor sites.

Or maybe they really do. I would.

ale4529

Jun 2, 2009, 03:30 AM

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/05/31/iphone-safari-to-support-geolocation-google-latitude-demoed/)

ComputerWorld points out (http://blogs.computerworld.com/iphones_safari_browser_to_include_geolocation_0) a little publicized fact that iPhone 3.0's Safari browser will support Geolocation services. This means that websites will be able to request your current location (if you give them permission). This certainly hasn't been a secret to developers who were notified (http://www.nogood.it/wp/2009/03/18/iphone-os-30-the-next-step/) by Apple in March of the support:The possibilities, however, came to the forefront last week when Google demoed (via SlashGear) (http://www.slashgear.com/next-iphone-will-have-google-latitude-build-in-2744942/) their Latitude location service (http://www.google.com/latitude/intro.html) on the iPhone through a web browser alone.

Google said they will be launching the Latitude website for iPhone after the 3.0 OS is released.

Article Link: iPhone Safari to Support Geolocation, Google Latitude Demoed (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/05/31/iphone-safari-to-support-geolocation-google-latitude-demoed/)

ya this isn't creepy..... i tell ya- the world today has become very scary

SirWells

Jun 2, 2009, 10:41 AM

You can kind of make Latitude its own app my pushing the "+" button on the website and making it have a home-icon...

I'm wondering though.. Once you leave the browser, it is no longer tracking you, right? I would think probably not...

I was thinking the same thing. If you're in Safari, using Google Latitude, would you still be able to track your friends with their iPhones if they weren't within Safari running Google Latitude themselves? If it's only working when you use Safari, this would defeat the entire purpose of Google Latitude, as it works on other GPS enabled phones. It must be able to run in the background someway.

kdarling

Jun 2, 2009, 12:46 PM

I was thinking the same thing. If you're in Safari, using Google Latitude, would you still be able to track your friends with their iPhones if they weren't within Safari running Google Latitude themselves? If it's only working when you use Safari, this would defeat the entire purpose of Google Latitude, as it works on other GPS enabled phones. It must be able to run in the background someway.

Correct: you can only track other iPhones that are sitting actively on the Latitude website. Makes it only useful if you contact everyone and tell them to drop everything and go online.

It runs in the background on other phones. That's why Google refused to add it as an app to the iPhone, opting for a website instead.

davidwarren

Jun 2, 2009, 02:04 PM

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/05/31/iphone-safari-to-support-geolocation-google-latitude-demoed/)

ComputerWorld points out (http://blogs.computerworld.com/iphones_safari_browser_to_include_geolocation_0) a little publicized fact that iPhone 3.0's Safari browser will support Geolocation services. This means that websites will be able to request your current location (if you give them permission). This certainly hasn't been a secret to developers who were notified (http://www.nogood.it/wp/2009/03/18/iphone-os-30-the-next-step/) by Apple in March of the support:The possibilities, however, came to the forefront last week when Google demoed (via SlashGear) (http://www.slashgear.com/next-iphone-will-have-google-latitude-build-in-2744942/) their Latitude location service (http://www.google.com/latitude/intro.html) on the iPhone through a web browser alone.

Google said they will be launching the Latitude website for iPhone after the 3.0 OS is released.

Article Link: iPhone Safari to Support Geolocation, Google Latitude Demoed (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/05/31/iphone-safari-to-support-geolocation-google-latitude-demoed/)
does the Google Latitude page pull up your current location for the first image? Or does everyone see downtown Louisville? There is a marker right where I am......

SirWells

Jun 2, 2009, 02:23 PM

Correct: you can only track other iPhones that are sitting actively on the Latitude website. Makes it only useful if you contact everyone and tell them to drop everything and go online.

It runs in the background on other phones. That's why Google refused to add it as an app to the iPhone, opting for a website instead.

So Google Latitude on the iPhone is pretty much just like Loopt except it'll provide real time GPS data if the iPhones are on the Latitude website. Very disappointing. I was hoping if the 3.0 OS allowed the user to specify certain apps to run in the background, this could have been one that I'd allow.

vvebsta

Jun 3, 2009, 05:14 AM

does this have anything to do with that live street view? where they point the camera at the street and it shows you the names of streets and buildings???

kdarling

Jun 3, 2009, 05:35 AM

does this have anything to do with that live street view? where they point the camera at the street and it shows you the names of streets and buildings???

That's something the compass gives the ability for. Otherwise a phone app wouldn't know which way you were facing.

Interesting question though: do the geolocation APIs for Safari web pages include compass info?