BlackBook Guides
By App Type: Uncategorized
Our rating: 
By: BlackBook Media Corp.
Version #: 1.0
Date Released: 2008-07-31
Developer:
Price: 0.00
User Rating:
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I really like the concept of this app.
Using the location feature it offers a choice of hotels, restaurants and bars near you. Good start.
Tapping the name of one choice brings up the details, including name, address, phone number and a brief description. So far so good.
It then makes contacting them a breeze. Tap on the phone number and it dials the phone number automatically. Tap at the bottom of the screen and all the information on that hot spot is added to your address book. Getting better.
It then makes getting there once you have a reservation easy too. Tapping the address opens up the mapping program. The location feature of the iPhone then gives you a quick fix on your current location and, within a tap or two more, you have directions there. Awesome!
Errr… not so fast.
As I said I like the CONCEPT of this app. The EXECUTION, however, leaves something to be desired.
It would be a great app IF…
…you live in one of the (limited number of) cities the guide covers and IF…
… the location feature worked (which it does not).
I live about 30 miles outside of Manhattan. As a result, the guide could be great for when I get into Manhattan (which is far too rare). Unfortunately either the app has a built-in StarTrek-like transporter or the location feature that put me within a few miles of the eateries does not work. Every time it pulled up places in Manhattan it told me they were 7 miles away (give or take) even though I’m… well take a look…
So is Morimoto 6.9 miles away or is it 30.9 miles away? (The correct answer is 30.9) Ooops.
This application shows the power of the iPhone as a truly converged device that brings phone, computing, PIM data and GPS into one easy to use, integrated package… or at least it would if it worked right.
Quick Take- Fail.
Additionally, chosen beta users will have the option of setting status flags in relation to any venue of choice, such as“I’m going here,” or "I am here," allowing other users, friends or private groups to know where they are, or are planning to go. These flags expire by themselves and can be removed through the application interface. All user location notifications and information display is opt-in, and by visiting Bbook.com, users will be able to manage their information and remain current on all future updates. O U R T A K E . . .
