In this first article about Ericsson Labs’APIs, we take a look at the Web Location API. The Ericsson Labs APIs are intended for research purposes, focusing on innovation above commercial use.

The Web Location API enables the application developer to retrieve the location of a user, based on the positioning system of the mobile operator. The application users do not need to install extra software on their phones, and the positioning works for all types of phones.

Research engineer Richard Carlsson is one of two developers behind the Web Location API, which was released in June 2009. 

Generally, Carlsson says, Ericsson Labs’ APIs are intended for small businesses and independent developers (sometimes referred to as long-tail developers) who make small-scale applications that benefit from telecom data, or capabilities, provided by the APIs. 

What kind of applications can you create with the Web Location API?
Applications where you want the position of the user, such as: “Where can I find the nearest pizza restaurant?” When the user clicks on the service request, the application retrieves the user’s location, via the Web Location API, from the mobile operator serving the user. 

Other application examples are friend and family finder, opt-in ads, and movement tracking software. 

In this context, privacy is very important, so the location is only passed on if the user has given his or her permission. This is taken care of by the API, which requires approval from the user.

Right now we see a huge boom in positioning services. Generally, if location adds any type of value, it’s incorporated in the service. The explosion started with iPhone App Store.

Who has used it so far?
In addition to web developers and small businesses, one company that has used it quite a lot is the Swedish application development firm, Weevio.

What has been their feedback?
It is has become popular among those working with location-based services. The feedback we have received is that this API is exactly what is needed. Without it, developers would need to enter into agreements with each operator in the region they are serving. Feedback on the technical aspects has also been very positive and users generally have had no problems getting started using it.

What are your plans for the future? 
First of all, we plan to extend the service to more countries. We will also release a few more APIs offering other location-based services.

By Benny Ritzén
 
Ericsson Labs’ APIs
Ericsson Labs’ applications
Read about Clayster’s use of Labs’ location API