RootMetrics independent network testing service announced that iPhone owners will be crowdsourcing data that defines the performance of wireless
networks. An Android app is in the works. RootMetrics is an interesting research tool. In some places, such as the Wireless and Mobile News' office area, a carrier may score well for voice and not as well for data.
Apple approved RootMetrics'
crowdsourcing iPhone app that turns smartphones into network
monitors.
RootMetrics also
unveiled its newly designed mapping service featuring the company's new
RootScore system, which scores criteria to help
consumers decide which carrier service is best for them - accessed via
the application or online at www.RootMetrics.com.
The services show, on a map, the localized strengths and
weaknesses of networks operated by AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and
Verizon.
RootMetrics application and mapping service feature colorful
"heat" maps illustrating network performance in ranges from bright green
(strong service) to shades of red (not so good) to black (very poor or
no service).
- A striking new feature is the RootScore system ranking carrier
performance. The scoring system makes it easy for consumers to score
carrier performance across the reach of a given city and, most
helpfully, zero in on performance measured at specific street
intersections. - Interactive hex-style maps encourage users to click deep into
RootMetrics' maps for RootScores ranking performance where they most
often use their wireless service - at home, work and elsewhere. - The RootScore system compares carrier results in additional
terms to decibels and megabytes: For example, RootScores report how
many seconds it takes to download a typical song file (5 MB) or to
upload an average photo (800 KB). - Shortly, the RootMetrics application and online mapping service
will provide access to personalized maps where crowdsourcers track their
carrier's performance anywhere they carry their smartphones, an account
of their own contributions to the movement mapping the U.S. carriers.
Already, RootMetrics maps network performance in most of the
largest U.S. metropolitan markets including New York; Chicago; Los
Angeles-Orange County; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Dallas; San Francisco-San
Jose; Seattle; and others including small towns and rural areas added
every day as new crowdsourcers join the grassroots movement driving map
creation.
"RootMetrics is the only independent resource delivering accurate
mobile performance data because we measure the true experiences of
smartphone consumers. We publish fact, not opinions, and the fact is
there's no one best carrier, but RootMetrics can help you find the
carrier that's best for you," Griff said. "If your community isn't
mapped yet, join the grassroots movement publishing data you can trust."