MSN, Microsoft’s collective of Internet Services, have now launched an Open Application Programming Interface (API) for its MSN Direct Feature.
MSN Direct’s Send to GPS feature will allow any web-site to offer visitors the ability to send addresses, business listings and other locations directly from the site to their GPS enabled units. This update from the Microsoft Labs will allow any web-site to send location specific information to GPS units either wirelessly or through a USB port. Of course, the ability to send the information wirelessly is only available on compatible devices that have the Send to GPS feature on MSN Direct.
The launch of the API now makes it even simpler to build on the technology offered by Microsoft. Developers can make use of the Open API and implement their ideas or algorithms on the feature. The MSN Direct feature was initially launched at the International CES this year.
Joe Coco, product unit manager of MSN Direct was quoted by Tech2
MSN Direct opens up opportunities for Web sites in a variety of areas – real estate, travel, event planning and food service – to make it fast and simple for visitors to have access to turn-by-turn directions on their navigation device. MSN Direct helps consumers get the most out of their navigation device, while also helping businesses drive more customers to their locations.
In recent times, there has been a lot of development on the Global Positioning System (GPS) front. GPS units have not only reduced in size making them portable enough to carry around, but the prices have drastically reduced too. Most cell phones now come enabled with GPS units, allowing the user to get turn-by-turn directions to any place. This initiative by Microsoft will nothing but boost the same purpose.
