Loopt
by Android Tapp
Dec 26, 2008 11:12 AM –
Install
Loopt is the best way to see what’s happening around you – which friends (from Loopt and Facebook) are nearby, which bars are hopping, and which restaurants your friends like to go to. Use Loopt’s free location-aware text messaging (“Ping”) to connect with friends, and find places to go, when you’re out and about.
Price: Free
Features:
Loopt for Android has 3 main features: Map, List and Share.
- Map shows the geo-location where you and your friends are on the map. You can set Loopt to automatically fetch your location, manually change it or not get it at all.
- List basically lists you and your friends, tapping on the friend icons offers more features such as Comments (Loopt’s commenting system), Call, SMS Text messaging, Ping (sends an SMS text messaging to your Loopt friend requesting their location and sending yours, if they accept… their Pingback called a “Pong” will update you), and Removal options.
- Share opens more social sharing features such as telling What’s up, Where you are and Attach a Photo. You can even configure Loopt to broadcast your updates via Facebook, Twitter, Journal Widget, and Journal Feed with the Link Up! feature.
Note: You have to create a Loopt account to use the app, which is easy via the device.
We’ve found, plus a few other reports of users getting “stuck” in the Loopt menus. We spoke with Fred of Loopt and he stated in landscape mode (the G1 screen open and keyboard exposed) the menu tabs are removed for more screen real estate, and would consider revisiting this user interface quirk.
We’ve also noticed the “Mix” feature is not included in the Android version. Mix is a beta feature on the iPhone currently that allows you to share a public profile and connect with folks of common interests nearby. There is some mixed feelings about Mix, so with praise… gripes follow.
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Loopt Home Screen
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Loopt Notifications
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Loopt Ping Feature
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Loopt Checkins
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Loopt Map
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Loopt Friends List
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Loopt Add New Friends
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Loopt Share
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Loopt Share Something
Usefulness:
Loopt is more cool factor and social networking than useful. For some users it can be quite useful if enough of your friends are on Loopt.
Ease of Use:
Loopt is pretty easy to use and configure.
Frequently Used:
The frequency of use is user preference. If you enjoy staying connected in real-time with friends and family that use Loopt, then you’ll use it often.
Interface:
Loopt user interface is optimized for thumb/finger navigation.