The Maps API Amazon Fate Of Beta

Amazon Maps

Amazon has a knack for inviting where competition does not really expected, so too does its mapping application that makes available in its final version on Kindle platform. So far, this is indeed Google Maps that is installed by default with the purchase of a Kindle Fire, the Amazon tablet multimedia. Choice "default" to satisfy customers could soon be replaced by the Amazon home solution.

Amazon presented its API mapping and geolocation last September, leaving him time to improve through a beta phase. Giant online sales has today announced the end of the status and availability of the final version of its application. The API has attracted the interest of developers like Hipmunk, Evernote, Trulia or Zillow that have directly implemented in their respective applications, Amazon offers it may soon own version of GPS application in its next Kindle tablet. Leveraging interactive maps and layers customizable, it is still early to know whether the mapping service will be place next to Google Maps widespread in the market for smartphones and tablets.   However, the deliberate choice of Amazon shows a little more control of the manufacturer to differentiate a little Google and want to create as a legitimate identity in the market for mobile devices.

Google forced Android 4.2 to adopt the geolocation Google Now

By removing the option that allowed you to turn a user's location in Google Maps only, Google is forcing the hand of the followers of Android for the proper functioning of Google Now.

With the arrival of version 4.2 of Android Jelly Bean always known, Google has added new features and options in its mobile operating system. But it also seems that the Mountain View giant has decided to make a cross on a choice that was available to users until version 4.1.2.

The choice of geolocation

Thus, in the latter, it is possible to activate geotagging for some services. For example, Google Maps, but not Google Now, the service of research and extensive background information on your smartphone (or tablet) as a function of time, your location, your search habits, etc.. In version 4.2, as we have seen, this choice no longer exists. When you decide to activate its location in Google Maps, mapping application integrated with Android, it is mandatory for all active applications provided by Google, Now Google in mind.
And if you want to deny the right of Google Now you know where you are, it will not be possible to locate you on the map of Google Maps.

Do Not Track new generation?

In fact, Google does not hide it. As indicated elsewhere clearly the comments when you activate geotagging on a smartphone or tablet Android « Google applications can access your position when you are not using them.»  In other words, Google will follow you to the environment and do not offer the possibility to activate this function for a single application. The problem is even more annoying is that Google Now just as a daily one way for Google to retrieve information in order to draw you a portrait « qualified ». Even if for the moment, the U.S. giant is careful not to cross the line of acceptable. However, while the battle of Do Not Track is engaged (stuck?) For surfing the web, that the Do Not Track in everyday seems even talking to him for that is interested.