Samsung taps into location with Skyhook deal for bada handsets

Location-based apps are currently generating a fair amount of buzz, so it's no surprise that platform holders are looking to make their formats as accommodating to LBS apps as possible.

As such, the news that Samsung has signed a deal to incorporate Skyhook's core location platform into its bada handsets seems logical, with Samsung's Wave S8500 (pictured) set to be the first device to make use of Skyhook's technology.

The platform will enable location-based apps running on bada to get a firmer fix on where the user is, employing a combination of GPS, cell-tower positional data, and trusted wi-fi network information to improve results in all environments.

Bigging up bada

As a result, Skyhook believes its cooperation with Samsung will allow a range of bada apps from social networks, to turn by turn navigational systems and presumably games too to perform with increased accuracy.

"Samsung is committed to delivering the maximum benefits of smartphones for our customers and developer partners," said VP of R&D planning team at Samsung, Hyungmoon Noh.

"Precise location is central to the mobile experience, and Skyhook's Core Location will provide Samsung mobile devices with market-leading location capabilities."

Skyhook's core engine was also recently signed up by LBS app Gowalla, with the two parties working together to improve check-in accuracy for Android users.