New OpenAPRS for iPhone/iPad Features

We're currently doing final testing of our push notification server and background support for the iPhone/iPad app which means in the next two weeks we should be pushing out the long await next version.

Included in this new version will be:

• Push Notification for APRS messages, based on the callsign SSID you have set in settings for messaging. Our push notification server has been written and is active, subscribing for notifications will be as easy as opening the app and answering yes to push notifications, after the first map sync with our servers you should be able to receive notifications. We'll be removing any duplicate messages automatically to prevent any ack problems. APRS message acknowledgments for registered push users will be implemented shortly on the server side but will not block this release.
• US FCC callsign lookup.
• Improved connection speeds to our servers, improved app memory management and iPhone 4 retina graphics (for interface and -some- common APRS icons we've remastered; we'll remaster more as we go).
• iOS 4 background support.

This release will require iOS 4.2 or higher to run.

OpenAPRS for iPhone - 2.1 Is Just Around the Corner

OpenAPRS for iPhone 2.1 is in pre-release stages and will offer several user suggested feature improvements and additions.

Here is what is coming...

• 04/28/2010 - Change default Google map type from settings (street, satellite hybrid).
• 04/28/2010 - Ability to change Google map type from map console.
• 04/28/2010 - Increased console icon size.
• 04/28/2010 - Detailed information for stations on map.
• 04/28/2010 - Tracking mode will show previous stations breadcrums.
• 04/28/2010 - WX Stations show weather conditions in station detail view.
• 04/28/2010 - Object creation and deletion.

OpenAPRS iPhone Edition RELEASED!

Yesterday I received word back that Apple approved our APRS iPhone application. Search for "OpenAPRS" or "APRS" in the app store to find it.

OpenAPRS iPhone Edition Details:

OpenAPRS iPhone Edition brings the world of APRS right to your iPhone. Paired with iPhone’s built in map engine, Internet connection and GPS, OpenAPRS gives you access to check your APRS messages, beacon your position and view other Amateur Radio operators anywhere in the world.

Send your position with any model iPhone by assisted GPS, cell phone triangulation or manual coordinate entry. Share your trip with your friends as they view you on their iPhones, APRS software connected to APRS-IS or on the OpenAPRS website:

http://www.openaprs.net/

Posted positions can also be viewed at other APRS websites such as aprs.fi, findu.com and APRSWorld.

Check your APRS messages or send a message to a friend right from OpenAPRS iPhone Edition. Our servers are always on to receive and store your messages so you don’t have to keep a station running 24/7. Never miss a message again!

Non or aspiring Amateur Radio operators can also view APRS activity near them on OpenAPRS iPhone Edition but will not be able to send their position or messages. Not yet a HAM operator? There is still time, check out www.arrl.net for information on how to study and where to take your Technician class exam today; no morse code required!

A free account with OpenAPRS is required to send your position or send and receive messages. Signing up is easy, simply open up OpenAPRS iPhone Edition, click the signup tab, fill out the form and click Signup! The app will automatically contact our servers and set up your account. You will need to have a valid email account to receive our activation message to activate your account. The activation email should be received within about 15 minutes, click the activation link, start up OpenAPRS iPhone Edition and you’re all set.

Features:

• Callsign SSID support.
• Ability to change your APRS Icon.
• Auto beaconing on a user settable interval.
• Custom position comment.
• Breadcrumb creation to show your beaconed positions throughout your trip.
• Auto centering map on movement.
• Ability to disable the iPhone screen saver to use as a map during your travels
• Manual coordinate entry if desired for beacons instead of using automatic GPS coordinates.
• Supports sending and receiving APRS messages to your callsign + SSID. You don’t have to be online when a message is sent to you, our servers will store messages until you check them.
• Distance traveled indicator.
• Estimated speed based on time and position change between updates (not to be used as an actual speedometer).
• Built in compass that works on 3GS or higher iPhones.
  

OpenAPRS iPhone Edition will run on iPod touch but will need to have coordinates entered manually unless it is connected to a well-known WiFi location.