Google Maps? in 2001??
Re:TheFacebook.com’s darker side (2004)
by B1FF_PSUVM on Wednesday January 25, 2017 @06:06AM
(#13480417)
Probably cell-tower triangulation, not GPS, and just a GMaps-like interface (as in a map image with a blinking dot ;-)
Still remember ATT Mobile in early 2001 had a "find me" service you could use to find your friends. It was like a messenger app you logged into and then it would show you where your friends were located on a google maps interface. Then you could text or chat with him.
They used the example of a guy who wins some concert tickets and wants to invite his friends that are nearby. It showed him logged in and then bringing up the messaging interface and showing three friends all within a few block radius. He sends out a group text about the tickets and they agree to meet at the bar in 15 minutes. I really thought it was a clever use of GPS and felt this was really the future of "smart" phones.
I tried to sell that shit to everybody I knew and everybody instantly freaked about their phone transmitting where they were and how it would violate their privacy, etc, etc.
I guess times have changed huh?