Google [GOOG] has released a new Android application called Open Spot, which works with Android 2.0 and above. The Open Spot application lets you search for unclaimed parking spaces that have been reported to the service by other Open Spot users.
Once someone has left a particular parking space they can report this to the service, and then other users will be able to find the vacant parking spaces in their area.
How Open Spot Works
The Open Spot application operates on a simple yet effective principle: crowd-sourced information. When a user vacates a parking spot, they can mark it as available on the app. This information is then shared with other users in real-time, allowing them to find and navigate to the newly available parking space. The app uses GPS technology to pinpoint the exact location of the available spots, making it easier for users to find parking in congested urban areas.
However, whilst this does seem like a useful application, there is just one thing that it doesn’t take into account: other people who don’t use the service parking in the spot. So by the time you get there, someone else could have claimed it. This is a common issue with crowd-sourced applications, as they rely heavily on user participation and real-time updates.
Benefits and Limitations
The Google Open Spot application offers several benefits. Firstly, it can significantly reduce the time spent searching for parking, which is a common issue in busy cities. This not only saves time but also reduces fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to a greener environment. Additionally, the app is free to download from the Android Market, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
However, there are limitations to consider. The app’s effectiveness is highly dependent on the number of active users in a given area. In regions with fewer users, the availability of reported parking spots may be limited. Furthermore, the app does not account for non-users who might occupy the reported spots, leading to potential frustration for users who arrive only to find the spot taken.
To mitigate these issues, Google could consider integrating additional features such as real-time occupancy sensors or partnerships with parking facilities to provide more reliable data. Another potential improvement could be the inclusion of a rating system, allowing users to rate the accuracy of reported spots, thereby increasing the reliability of the information shared.
The Google One Spot application is available as a free download from the Android Market. Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
In conclusion, while the Google Open Spot application presents a promising solution to the perennial problem of finding parking, its success will largely depend on user participation and the accuracy of the reported data. As more users adopt the app and contribute to its data pool, its utility and reliability are likely to improve, making it a valuable tool for urban commuters.
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