Description:
MeetingPoint is a free, simple, short-range contacting software, using Bluetooth wireless technology.
Bluetooth can "see" through walls, doors and people, at all directions at the same time. Its effective range is usually 30ft (10m).
MeetingPoint follows the CB-style paradigm of channels, where people on the same channel are able to send messages to each other.
It works on supported Smartphones, PDA (Personal Digital Assistants), and also on Windows PC/laptops.
It's useful for:
Arranging a meeting with someone you don't know in person (e.g. virtual friends from a chat room). Just tune your MeetingPoint to a previously agreed channel, and go to the meeting point (airport, crowded pub, etc). When you are within range, both MeetingPoints will fire audible alarms, making you aware of the other party's location.
Contacting like-minded people, or pals sharing your interests, religion or preferences. For example, if you are a huge fan of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, you might want to search for others using "REDHOT" as your channel.
Mass-sending a message to everybody within range, not just MeetingPoint users. Use with caution.
Accessibility support for blind and vision-impaired people is planned.
Update Description:
Version 0.95 beta Palm, Symbian series 60, Windows Mobile (PPC), Windows (PC):
Palm OS now can send messages to low end cell phones (like SE T610) using our own implementation of BT protocol.
Logging of discovered devices (Palm/Symbian address, PC / PPC includes also name and device)
Automatic message save/restore (except on PalmOS)
October 1st 2004:
MeetingPoint 0.94 the "Bluetooth contacting application" is already updated with mayor changes in Palm OS and Symbian.
Download at http://www.net-cell.com/MP/dl.html
Now you can take your Palm device and contact people automatically when in Bluetooth range.
New changes:
Palm OS and Symbian can send messages to ANY other Bluetooth device in range (no need of software in receiver).
Super Fast Mode when used as message server . Select channel ALL and on SEARCH screen push lever to TR mode (transmit mode only).
Subject has a maximum of 30 caracters ( as requested #1 in betatesters wish list ).
New version that works with Symbian UIQ advanced smartphones.
Added Stylus input alternative to Symbian UIQ
Standarized to 0.94 all versions, options:
PC with Windows 9x/2000/2003/XP with Bluetooth Widcomm drivers
Palm OS 5 with Bluetooth embedded
Windows Mobile (Pocket PC) with Bluetooth Widcomm drivers 1.4.x
Cellular phones with Symbian series 60
Cellular Phones with Symbian UIQ
This free application has tons of uses.
But also is a real trial of new uses of communication tools that will be included in many new applications to come, or customized in other existing products (localization, communication, telephony, social oriented apps., messaging, advertising, among others).
Thanks to have a Multi-platform base, any new development can have now "intelligent" software clients and extended features.
Reviews:
***** [Aug 1, 2004] by Guy Devos
An interesting concept that has tons of potential practical use.
