Intel is developing support for location-based services
in its mobile processor line that will allow computers to access
information based on their location.
"When we're talking about laptops, location-aware is one of the
usage models we're looking at," said Mooly Eden, vice president and
director of marketing at Intel's Mobile Platforms Group.
"The exact way we're going to implement it, the exact way we are
going to do it, is something we're exploring," Eden added. "When
the right time comes we will add it to the mobile platform."
Support for location-based services will be offered by the next
version of the Microsoft Windows operating system, known as
Longhorn.
Among the potential applications envisioned by Microsoft is the
ability for computers to switch default printers and automatically
connect to a preconfigured wireless network based on the specific
location of the computer, as well as get directions to destinations
and directory search services that prioritise merchants located
nearby.
Microsoft hoped that hardware makers, software developers and
internet service providers will support the location-based
capabilities to be offered in Longhorn.
Sumner Lemon writes for IDG News
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