Google now using GPS for mobile ads

Google today started running its first location-sensitive mobile ads. Apps and websites tailored to Android and iOS devices can now use the location features, such as GPS or Wi-Fi triangulation, to trigger ads in a given area. The ads are expandable and expand with a tap to show a map with the location as well as the option of calling or getting directions.

The system is designed to be cheap for advertisers and only charges for running the ad if the viewer choose to call or navigate.

The approach is rare in the industry and has drawn controversy for potentially violating privacy by tracking user habits. Google's pattern shouldn't necessarily cause problems with the iPhone as Apple's development policies only prohibit location solely for ads. Google has its own privacy restrictions but typically doesn't prevent GPS working only for advertising tasks. [via TechCrunch]

By Electronista Staff