Picture tells a thousand words with location finding app

Phind is an app which enables users to search for locations simply by taking a photograph with their smartphone.

With Google, finding information about your location has never been easier. But what if you can’t find a street name or landmark? Without that essential data the search engine can be stumped. Here to help is a new smartphone app called Phind, which enables users to search just by taking a photograph. Using image recognition technology, it draws on online images that relate to the user’s snap, and provides them with not only the place name, but an abundance of other relevant information.

After downloading the free app, users begin by taking a photo with their smartphone camera. Phind then performs an image search, and collates relevant data from various platforms — including Foursquare, Trip Advisor and Wikipedia. The app will give the searcher the name and history of the place, facts about the location and user reviews and tips. Users can also search for nearby restaurants, accessing menus and contact details within the app. Phind is integrated with Uber and Viator too, enabling users to easily book any tickets or taxis they need.

Phind expect to generate revenue through advertising. If the model works, could other services be delivered through image searches?