Loopt, an interoperable social-mapping and communication service, will now be available to consumers through the Android Market, Google's new mobile application store.

Loopt users can share their location between carrier networks with fellow Loopt users on AT&T, Sprint, Verizon Wireless, Boost, MetroPCS and T-Mobile. Loopt is currently supported on more than 100 handsets including the Apple iPhone and BlackBerry, and is now available on select phones with the Android Market.

"From the start, our goal has been to build a ubiquitous interoperable network in which customers don't have to worry about who has what provider or mobile device," said Sam Altman, cofounder and CEO of Loopt, Mountain View, CA.

"This focus is combined with a commitment to delivering compelling consumer location services and effective privacy standards," she said. '

Back in November 2007, Google, T-Mobile, HTC, Qualcomm, Motorola and other Open Handset Alliance members collaborated on the development of Android, an open and comprehensive platform for mobile devices.

The platform provides developers a new level of openness that enables them to work more collaboratively.

The Android platform is a fully integrated mobile "software stack" that consists of an operating system, middleware, user-friendly interface and applications.

Android's launch is a response to the fact that 3.5 billion people worldwide own a mobile phone. These devices have become the most personal and omnipresent communications device.

Android allows developers, carriers and handset manufacturers to bring to market new products faster and cheaper.

The Loopt experience in the Android Market offers all the core Loopt features including background location updating which enables users to receive alerts when a friend is nearby.

Users can also switch between map modes for a satellite view of their friend map or to monitor traffic delays.

Beyond sharing their location and status information with friends via phones, Loopt users can also easily share their information with popular Web services such as Facebook, MySpace and Twitter or personal blogs and Web sites.

Loopt is available for free in the United States from the Android Market.