Location Based Technologies has launched the PocketFinder service for Google Android-based smartphones worldwide.

The launch will include the full integration of PocketFinder location devices. For a service fee, consumers get features such as real-time location, zone and speed alerts, instant messaging and travel history.

"Many people want the benefits of a personal location device but are hindered by the complexity of its use," said Dave Morse, CEO of Location Based Technologies, Anaheim, CA. "The PocketFinder service is designed specifically for ease of use and offers feature rich capability.

"GPS smartphones have the GPS technology and our service enhances it for the customer," he said. "PocketFinders are for people who would not have or use a cell phone such as young children, autistic, Down's, Alzheimer's, etc., and obviously, pets have no need for a cell phone either!"

The company is targeting parents who want to locate their children, outdoor enthusiasts, businesses, pet owners and the elderly.

This new service will work on any wireless network worldwide -- GSM or CDMA -- and will be offered in October upon launch of Google's smartphone.

After much anticipation from the mobile industry, T-Mobile has officially announced that it will release the first Google Android-powered handset on Oct. 22 (see story).

Location Based Technologies is negotiating with other GPS smartphone providers to make this enhancement available to their customers as well, although specifics were not announced.

"We are developing on another platform currently and will bring on additional platforms over the next several months," Mr. Morse said.

The $9.95 service will be offered for $6.95 per month for customers who sign up during the first 30 days as a launch promotion.

Smartphones are a vast market which International Data Corporation projects will reach 304 million worldwide by 2011.

According to statistics published in May by Gartner, more than 32 million smartphones were purchased worldwide in the first quarter of 2008 alone.

Smartphone sales in North America rose by 106 percent in the same quarter.

The PocketFinder family of products uses advanced technology to help families stay connected.

The single-board GSM/GPS device fits into a pocket, purse or backpack, and can be accessed via the Internet, mobile phone or landline to show its exact location in real time.

In addition, the devices include several advanced features, such as allowing users to designate customizable alert areas as electronic "fences" to notify them when a family member or pet leaves or enters a specified area.

The devices can also track vehicle speeds to encourage safe driving decisions.

The company previously announced it has received formal laboratory approval for GSM connectivity on the European wireless networks where negotiations continue to move forward with sales partners in the European community for PocketFinder and PetFinder devices.

"We are incentivizing people to sign up during the first 30 days so that they receive, and keep, a solid discount on the service," Mr. Morse said. "Marketing tactics also include press releases, radio and TV interviews, product reviews and industry conferences."