As smartphones are distributed explosively, recently LBS is highlighted as killer contents in the smartphone again. LBS has not been developed well except a few of services like navigation and map. Especially location related services such as “gypsii” has not been popular. There are some reasons why the service is not that successful. Though Nokia has distributed a lot of Symbian devices, real smartphones which can access to internet are not common. And the service doesn’t explain why people should use this service.
After several years, foursquare has been launched as the name of SNS based location service. It perfectly combines users’ locations and social networking. The difference between foursquare and former services is “check-in” function. And if you check in a cerain place more frequently, you can become the mayor of the place. It’s rather a kind of game. This entertainment is the powerful incentive for activating the service.
Some cases show exceptional service features such hot potato which has been acquired by facebook. They just use a location platform as one of function. They need this function, but they don’t addict a location itself. And through users’ participation, they can set up the various database system. Whay they like, Where they are, etc.
I don’t know what will be the next. But I know that LBS is not an objective service but a supporting service. When making a differentiated SNS or enhanced microblogging, a location platform is very important. It’s the key how to mingle the basic platform with the killer service.