Singapore telco Singtel is rolling out a location-based search service in the island-state and this will be available to all its postpaid mobile customers with a GPRS or 3G/3.5G-enabled device.
Dubbed *MAPS, the new location-based service (LBS) allows users to view their current location on a map from their handheld device. They can also search for services, events and promotions happening in their vicinity. This includes "a directory of shops, restaurants and essential amenities".
The telco plans to develop the LBS service to an all-encompassing view of things that are happening in the user's area in the near future. Customers can look forward to booking movie tickets or even find out about discounts at nearby restaurants.
The search service is free and available to all postpaid SingTel mobile users with a GPRS or 3G/3.5G handset. According to the press release, after users dial *MAPS (*6277), they will receive a WAP push message with a link to a map of their current location. From there, they can access the various location-based services. Prevailing traffic data charges, however, will apply.
*MAPS will also be available on the telco's Wireless@SG network by mid-August.
The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) and Singapore Tourism Board (STB) launched a similar pilot project called Digital Concierge earlier this year at CommunicAsia 2007. The trial will run from June 2007 for a period of 9 months before going fully commercial in mid-2008.
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