Skyhook's Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS)

Last week, I noticed some news that Apple teamed up with Skyhook Technologies. Well, tonight I found a video that explains the LBS widgets in more detail (view in IE or Safari, wouldn't play in Firefox). In fact, as it turns out, Skyhook was mentioned in Steve Job's Macworld 2008 Keynote Address.

I neglected to mention in my other post the main advantage of Skyhook's Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS) technology. Opps, so why is this technology so cool? It allows for developers like us to build applications without the need for carrier 'permission.' No more "walled garden" from Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, etc... No more limitations of non-supported models of GPS-enabled hardware (cell phones and other devices). All that is needed to get started is the WPS SDK. However, note that Skyhook's SDK download is free but once you commercialize your product you'll need to pay for the access.

"No partnership fees. No partner programs to sign up for. Nothing. Zip. Put those funds towards product development and focus on building great applications. When it comes time to release a commercial product, let Skyhook know. Our flexible pricing models and cost structure allow us to deliver the most cost effective location solution on the market, meaning more money in your pocket."

Don't get down this SDK is still a great deal because there is no overhead to get the end users to adopt whatever WPS enabled tool a company develops. Skyhook has posted a few case studies of WPS location-enabled applications in action, check em' out.