Glympse - App Review

This is an App that is so obvious (from the point of view of some of the technology in your iOS device) that it's amazing nobody did it earlier.

In a nutshell, let anyone (of your choice) know where you are, as well as how you are progressing in getting there.

This saves so much hassle about calling to say you will be late, and then having to call again to say it will be even later. It also enables you to meet up with others far more easily, or keep a watchful eye, where necessary.

How often have you had a call "where are you"? Well, Glympse is a pre-emptive strike against such calls.

Now for the ACIDS test:

Aesthetics
The first thing, if you want to do things really properly, is to set up your own details, importing them from Facebook or Twitter, or choosing a picture from your photo album. An alternative is to just type your name.

You can also choose whether to connect with Twitter and/or Facebook, and then have updates on your progress posted on these social networking sites. Additional options are broadcasting your speed, choice of units (mph or kph) and whether or not access to your whereabouts expires on arrival.

You are now almost ready to send your first Glympse. Hit the 'send glympse' button (this is a little confusing as what you are about to do is set up Glympse), enter your destination (optional), pick who you want to invite to eavesdrop on your location; this is easily done by entering phone numbers or email (and recent ones are pickable directly). Enter a message (also optional), and finally decide how long you will share the information; this can be for any number of minutes up to four hours.

Now, hit the send Glympse button (another one) and you are sharing your location and progress.

If you entered an email address then, the person(s) received an email with a link, and if you entered a phone number then, a message was prepared for you to send with the same link. All the recipient needs to do is click on the link and be with you every step of the way. There is no need for that person to have the App, simply access to the Internet with any browser.

Cost
Both the App and access to the information are free. Just be aware that if you are accessing the Internet through a mobile phone, there might be usage charges from your mobile operator... unless you have an unlimited data plan, of course.

Indispensability
Glympse just makes life so much easier. Not only do people know where you are but they can also help you get to your destination. Do not confuse Glympse with Find My Phone; the two are (almost) completely different.

Dependability
The App works flawlessly and the information provided on the website seems to be accurate.

Security
The (optional) sharing of information with Twitter and/or Facebook carries some risks. You also need to be aware that anybody receiving your invitation can share that with someone else.

ACIDS Test Rating:

What a great idea.

To find out how the ACIDS Test works, click here.

You can get Glympse here and support for the App here.