The goal of the app challenge is to increase employment levels for people with disabilities by promoting resources using accessible mobile technology to assist both employers and job seekers.
Each app submitted to the challenge should achieve at least one of the following goals:
Currently only available in the US and Japan, the 6.7 version of the app allows users to view indoor floor layouts of buildings as well as hear walking directions of participating sites and businesses. Combined with the GPS technology of Google Maps, users are guided indoors by a blue dot that moves with their physical location as well as audible instructions on how to best get to a desired indoor location.
Voice recognition technology, which converts speech into text, is a hot topic in the technology world at the moment. This has been largely because of the introduction of Siri, the automated personal assistant in the iPhone 4S. Google also has its own voice recognition software integrated into the Android mobile operating system. Engineers in both companies are working towards improving the technology as app developers the world over rush to take advantage of it.
The mobile version of Nokia Maps allows smartphone users with iPhone, iPad or an Android device to use the service with their web browser. A new feature announced last week allows users to request walking directions in audio form for their journey. An audio file is delivered to the user, providing turn-by-turn instructions based on your geographic location.
