In fact, I want to use this app to make my own map of some particular interest. For example, a map of past kingdoms in history, battle location, path of a journey, etc. But, here is some enhancement I needed before I can start: 1. no feature for 'Google path', that is, defining a sequence of points. 2. for the zone defined, I can name it, but it will not shown in the map. I have to tap on it and select the detail page to get the name. It is meaningless to get a name after your chosen it, right? I need the name to be displayed directly in the map view, within the zone. (just like a normal map do) 3. I can export the tag to Google Earth, that's great. But I have no way to import from it. Then, I can not use my Google Earth to create tag for the app. Moreover, I can not use my Google Earth (or KML files) as a data back up (since it is no way to get the data back to the app). Also, I can not send the KML file to someone and ask them to view it in the app.
You have great ideas for using Geotags. Here are a few comments about each one of your points.
1. Terrapad, the platform off of which Geotags was created, indeed supports 'paths': we simply didn't think they would be useful to people. In the light of your comments, we will consider creating a 'Geopath' object which could be used to record linear features;
2. Displaying text on the map was supposed to make it into the first version of Geotags but was never implemented due to lack of time and ressources. It should be there one day although we cannot say when right now. It is indeed an essential feature for maps. For now, may we point out that you don't need to go to the detail page of a feature to view its name. By tapping on it on the map, the 'Wheel' will appear and the name of the feature will be displayed either at the top or at the bottom of the map;
3. Sharing data is definitively an item high on our priority list. We are currently trying to figure out the best way to implement this. We would like to make this feature as simple and as useful as possible for our users. We understand you would like to use Google Earth to enter (and I assume modify and delete) data. We will explore this possibility and see if it is feasible. As for data backups, I would like to point out that by backing up your iPhone or iPod Touch via iTunes, you do get a backup of your data in case of device failure. Of course, you cannot use this backup to manually bring back the data into Geotags or share it with a friend. The only way to access this data is via a device restore.
Thanks for this great app I've long been looking for in the iStore. Similiar to user yuliu616 I would like to use the app for a map of important locations in history and contemporary politics, economy, ... - I'd also love to have an import-feature for kml/kmz-files. - Moreover it would be necessary for me to have more icons than just the blue flag (and icons of a much smaller size! The blue flag is definitely far too big). - To be able to cache a map in advance would be an important feature (just like e.g. GPS Trails Log does). I was told that Google Maps cannot be cached, but for this feature caching openStreetMaps would be enough. - in my opinion it would also make sense to have a dedicated 'category'-field to categorize the type of waypoint that you set (is it a building, a battle-location, the birth-place of a person and so on.). Of couse you can put this kind of information into the 'Text'-field, but separating additional full-text from the category-information might be a smarter approach. - I haven't found a way to save my searches or to set filters that reduces the number of waypoints that are shown on the map. Is this feature planned in the near future?
First of all, we're glad you're enjoying the application. My first question would be are you using Geotags or have you upgraded to Terrapad? Terrapad is a free upgrade to Geotags that was recently released on the AppStore.
1) We do not currently offer an extension for history buffs but it is something that could be developed. If you could take a look at the different free extensions for Terrapad (such as Chicago or Metro Maps) and try to make a list of objects and attributes that you would like to see in your custom extension, we can discuss this further. 2) KML import is on the drawing board but will not happen soon. We need to respect a very tight release schedule and our corporate clients need some functionality for end of spring that will occupy us most of winter. 3) As for map caching, as you mentioned, our terms of agreement with Google prevent us from caching the map. To enable a new map layer with openStreetMaps is not in our plans at the moment. 4) Categories are definitely doable, please see point 1 and give us a list of objects and their attributes that you'd like to see and we can make this happen! 5) Saving searches is definitely a great idea. I'll place that on our list, but I really think this could be a great addition.
Again, thanks for your comments and suggestions. We are very open to working with you to develop your extension.
Hello, I am very exited about your product. I believe you have a good head start on ESRI at this moment, and let's face it ESRI is not a "UI" company.
I am wondering though if there are any plans for gps logging as an extension or feature?
I personally require full NMEA sentences that I can upload later to my computer later for post processing (I'm using an external antenna for my iPhone)
As for the UI of the wheel interface, I have not made up my mind yet on the + or - side... I applaud the unique approach though.
GPS logging is something we will be definitely be looking at in the near future. Right now, we want to stay ahead of the competition and have some major new features coming up that we are very excited about.
These major new features lay down the foundation for a lot more.
After this, we'll be working on improvements to the current workflow, the user interface (we'l want to look at optimizations for the upcoming iPad) and adding most of what our users have asked for such as annotations, GPS logging, a better map (without the constant refresh messages).
Stick around, the coming months will be exciting in Terrapad land.