Trapster is a mobile-device based application and website, which integrates social networking and crow- sourcing perfectly.

The application is provided for free, and it utilizes Google maps for GPS mapping.

Trapster maps out and alerts users in real time about user reported:

• LIVE Police Speed Traps
• Red Light Cameras
• Speed Cameras
• Areas Police are Known to Often Hide

The application also allows users to:

• Access iPod Music Library
• Record Trip Data
• Share Data via SM Sites like Facebook & Twitter

Trapster currently works with Blackberry, iPhone, Nokia, Android, Garmin, and TomTom devices.

Coming Soon: Palm Pre & Windows Mobile Devices.

The mobile application utilizes Wi-Fi or GPS to pinpoint the user’s location, and provides voice alerts or text messages when the user is within range of a reported “threat.” Threats are rated and weighted by the number of users that “agree” or “disagree” with reported traps.

Trapster Version 3.5 iPhone Application Review

Those of you that follow me on Twitter, @NauticalUrge, know that I am an avid Trapster evangelist. I make a sincere effort to post traps whenever I can safely do so. Therefore, I am excited to say that Trapster 3.5 is a most welcome update to an already great application.

Dynamic Directional Mapping vs. True North Mapping

A feature that many Trapster users have been asking for has finally been added to Trapster, is the ability to choose between True North and Direction-of-Travel Mapping. Choosing the latter allows you to have your direction of travel face up on the map, so that you can more easily see what is coming ahead of you when headed a direction other than North.

Additional Bluetooth Audio Options

This is a feature I don’t personally utilize, but it’s a convenient feature for those with the accessories to do so. Trapster is now capable of various in-car bluetooth setups like being able to push audio out via A2DP, or via other bluetooth audio accessories. Trapster automatically pauses your music during voice alerts and notifications.

Access to iPod Music Controls

Trapster now has a built-in function that allows access to your iPod Music Controls. This prevents accidental application closures when trying to double-tap to get to your iPod music. Your music can either automatically pause for voice alerts, or you can have the voice alerts play over your music.

Trapster Trips

Recording trips within Trapster has gotten much easier with a static icon placed on the main screen, which allows for quick and easy posting of trip photo and notes.

Real-Time Traffic via Google

Google utilizes data from it’s users to display real-time traffic data, and Trapster utilizes this data in their latest application update.

Multi-Language Support & Sound Themes

Trapster’s voice alerts are now available in different languages and themes, such as a “Austin Powers,” “Homer,” or “Sponge Bob.”

Notes from the Author

Trapster is one of my favorite iPhone applications, and many of my friends follow my tweets and use the application to simply be aware of known traps, but as you’ll find with many users and non-users, opinions about the application are mixed. Some people are of the opinion that Trapster encourages motorists to violate traffic safety laws, while others believe that Trapster actually assists law enforcement by allowing the motorists to encourage each other to slow down in specific areas.

Law Enforcement officials too are divided on the issue. Many local law enforcement officers whom I’ve spoken to approve of the application because it ultimately produces the same desired results as police officers expect, but with much less labor-intensive hours devoted to tickets and court-cases; thus freeing law enforcement officers to focus on actual crimes in the area.

Personally, Trapster serves the same purpose as Speed Limit signs and Mobile Radar Stations. The ultimate goal is to encourage motorists to SLOW DOWN and pay more attention. Having a dash mounted mobile device providing voice alerts is not more than an audible speed limits sign saying “Please slow down and pay attention!”

There have been multiple discussions on whether or not Trapster should be illegal, and whil it currently is NOT illegal, I doubt very much that the application itself could be “banned,” as it would in essence violate individuals’ freedom of speech and expression.

However, Trapster could very well find itself once again in the spotlight if States consider mobile applications to fall under these new laws against texting while driving. Only time will tell as to the future of such mobile applications, but for now my hat goes off to the Trapster Team for developing such a useful and full-featured mobile application that actually produces a valuable benefit to users.


http://www.Trapster.com
Download the Application to iTunes Today!