The self named ‘Computational Knowledge Engine’
Wolfram Alpha is to
open-up its Application Programming Interface (API) to third-party
developers.
Wolfram Alpha calculates and answers technical queries making
use of graphics, animation and a ten trillion unit data pool. The
data sets include astronomical, chemical, geo-political, financial,
mathematical, language and weather.
Regular search-engines differ in that they only search the web
for and list data-sources.
Software developers working for the science community could
benefit from this new service. Wolfram cites examples such as
cancer research and biological computations as potential uses.
The service will not be free. Charges will range from US$60,
allowing a developer’s programmes 1000 API look-ups, to US$220000
for ten million requests.
Traffic on its site has not been as high as hoped since its
initial launch at the start of 2009. Many people were confused as
to its purpose thinking it was a regular but more powerful
search-engine.
Opening it up to outside programmers could bring the desired
revenues and usage.
Wolfram Alpha is currently accessing their own API to develop
their forthcoming iPhone Application.