More of Google's world in your pocket...unless you have a Treo
Google announced a number of new and improved offerings for mobile phones. Unfortunately, one of the more potentially useful products, Google Mobile Maps, doesn't support the Palm Treo, one of the more popular smart phones on the market.
I understand that it is difficult to support all of the various moblie browsers that are out there. I also understand that there aren't as many owners of Treos as there are of these other devices.
But, the Treo is a high end "smart phone" with a big screen and fast internet connection. And it is carried by lots of early adopters. If you are targeting mobile map users, wouldn't Treo owners be high on the list?
Don't get me wrong. Google has done more to advance mobile online apps than anyone else. I use mobile Gmail every day and Google SMS is quickly becoming my go-to guy.
But, my search for quality mobile maps for the Treo continues...
Update 10/13/06: Google just added support for the Treo! Download it from your Treo's browser at google.com/gmm.
3 comments so far
Handmark Express has VERY good mapping functionality for Treos. www.handmark.com
My experience with a BlackBerry 8700 isn't that much better than yours with the Treo, at least when using the browser. The custom applications work pretty well, though. While I understand their desire to support mass market devices, I would think throwing some experimental products at "bleeding edge" users might provide some insight into emergent trends.
Have you tried KMaps on your Treo? It's gotten some raves from Treo 650 users.
Craig, I haven't tried Handmark Express. It looks promising, although I would prefer a web version instead of having to install another app.
Jimmy, I feel your pain. I tried KMaps a while ago and promptly uninstalled it. It had a terrible interface and used a lot of resources. It looks like they have been aquired now, so maybe things have improved.
It seems like custom applications shouldn't be necessary. I'm surprised no one (Yahoo, Google, MapQuest) has been able to simplify their interface enough to use on a small screen and slower connection.
It'll happen eventually...