Mozilla Adds Geolocation Technology to Firefox

By: Jennifer Hong
Published: Nov 21, 2008
Updated: Mar 15, 2010

Mozilla has introduced a new geolocation feature in its Firefox Web browser. The project is called Geode which provides an early implementation of W3C Geolocation specifications. While the new Firefox add-on is experimental, a new version will appear in the next release of the Web browser.

The Mozilla Foundation has introduced a Firefox plug-in that lets Web users target geolocation areas of interest. The new plug-in uses Loki's Skyhook geolocation technology.

Geode, the new Firefox plug-in, is a new experimental project. The full version will be included in the upcoming Firefox 3.1 version. The new version will use the same W3C API for Geolocation which allows JavaScript code to work in both.

Firefox 3.1 will let Web browser users to choose a geolocation service provider. The provider they choose can be either a peripheral device like a GPS or a Web-based service provider as used in Geode.

"We see location as adding an extra layer to help get people the information they need," said Mike Shaver, Mozilla's vice president of engineering.

Geode is an early implementation of W3C Geolocation specification. This allows developers to begin experimenting by enabling location experiences when using Firefox 3.

Mozilla also expects more features from Geode. For instance, social network Web sites will be able to help users discover nearby friends and activities.