Useful Networks, a leading developer of
location-based products and services for mobile and Web, announces today the
availability of mapNinja(tm), a fully touch-enabled map viewer, which
enables rapid development of location-relevant applications for iPhone and
iTouch.
The mapNinja software development kit (SDK) enables developers to embed an
interactive map viewer within their native iPhone applications in just three
lines of code. Prior to mapNinja, iPhone developers had limited and
unappealing options when deciding how to incorporate mapping into their
iPhone apps.
Previous options included shutting down the app and linking to the
pre-loaded maps application on the iPhone, using static map images which
don't offer interactivity, or investing heavily in creating a map viewer
from scratch.
"Developers and iPhone users deserve a map interaction worthy of an
incredible platform like the iPhone," said Brian Levin, CEO of Useful
Networks. "The mapNinja SDK finally makes it easy for developers to take
advantage of the remarkable potential for both location-centric apps on the
iPhone, as well as adding location and maps as a convenient feature in those
instances when location is not necessarily the core focus of the app."
Key features of mapNinja include touch-enabled pan and zooming, customizable
background loading tiles, the ability to display multiple map types
(satellite, road, hybrid), vector and image graphics overlays, developer
documentation and continuous re-centering in auto-tracking mode.
The mapNinja SDK also includes out-of-box connectivity to four different
mapping providers including Microsoft Virtual Earth(r), CloudMade and Useful
Networks mapping services, giving developers the choice of up to 12
different map styles.
Several licensing options, including a no-fee ad-supported license, will be
available to suit the needs of commercial iPhone development shops, as well
as independent iPhone developers. For more information, visit
www.mapninja.com or contact sales@useful-networks.com.
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About Useful Networks
Useful Networks is a Denver-based company that delivers innovative mobile
location technology products to end users via the Internet and mobile
carriers. Founded in July 2006, Useful Networks powers cross-carrier
location aggregation for both carriers and content providers. Their platform
helps carriers reduce costs, time to market and complexity in launching
location aware products. Useful Networks is a privately held subsidiary of
Liberty Media. Liberty Media Corporation owns interests in a broad range of
electronic retailing, media, communications and entertainment businesses.
For more information, please see http://www.libertymedia.com. Useful
Networks and mapNinja are trademarks of Useful Networks, Inc.