GLM - Google Local for Mobile

Is this the killer application for 3G? Probably not, as for the foreseeable future the killer application for mobile phones will be voice... Anyway GLM, or Google Local for Mobile is something everybody should install on their handsets. Simply open your web browser on your phone. Then navigate to http://www.google.com/glm/. Select your carrier then select your phone make and model and download / install. GLM is your beloved Google Local service at your fingertips whenever you need it.

So first of all, it is a mapping service. Type in an address in almost any form, and it will bring you a map showing the location you look for. Then it is a routing service. Select two addresses (GLM remembers your last entries, so you don't have to enter repeating places manually) and GLM plots a route between them, highlighting any points you should be aware of. You can zoom in, zoom out, pan the map and even... tadam... tadam... tadam... swithch to a satellite view (the screenshot on the right actually shows the Market Square and St Mary's Church in Kraków (* click the [Satellite] button when you follow this link), my home town.

When Google introduced the Maps service, together with satellite views, we were stunned. But having the same functionality and performance on a mobile phone is a kind of a miracle. I have deliberately chosen very simple (albeit 3G - for faster service operation) handset - the Nokia 6630 to demonstrate the service (these phones go for less then a dollar with contract in Poland). GLM should work on any phone capable of running mobile Java applications - I have tested it on my iMate SP5m with great results (because of the high screen resolution - have a look at the screenshot). And by all means this is the best mobile Java application I have come across, defying all suspected weaknesses of Java, notably poor user interface and slow execution. GLM is fast, clear, easy and simple yet powerful.

With GLM Google is making very impressive entry into the mobile phones market, unleashing a new potential and empowering users with a highly valuable tool.

Highly recommended!