Apple won’t crank up the hype machine about all the new things an iPhone can do until its Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, but here’s a small taste of what’s in store: finding things to do in the neighborhood when you’re at a loss.
That’s the idea behind Pelago, the first company funded by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers as part of the $100 million iFund the venture capital firm announced in March at Apple’s last big iPhone event. Pelago’s software, called Whrrl, ties the mapping capabilities of the iPhone and other smartphones with the ability to find information about places where you, your friends, or anyone has been. Say you’re lost in Las Vegas and need a restaurant recommendation. With iPhone in hand, you can scan the locations of nearby restaurants, just Italian restaurants, or just those recommended by foodie friends. Or you could search for the highest-rated bars or kid-friendly activities recommended by friends from your social network. There’s going to be a “what’s going on around me right now” button, says Kleiner Perkins partner Matt Murphy. “You’re always one button away from that immediate context.” More —>
