The Augustiner Festhalle, Theresienwiese, Munich
I got separated recently from my friends while we were visiting Oktoberfest in Munich. It is a LARGE place, and a VERY busy and crowded place. It’s almost impossible to try to find one another in such a venue; saying, “I’m right in front of the Schottenhamel Tent” isn’t much help.
So, in situations like this (and in many others, because it’s convenient), we use an App called What3Words.
It uses Google Maps, but breaks the entire world down into 3 x 3 meter squares. The software algorithm then assigns a unique identifier that is made up of three words. So, I can figure out what 3×3 meter patch of Earth I am currently occupying, and then text it to my friend.
After that, my friend opens the link I’ve just texted him, and he can see where I am on the Google Map, and where he is on the Google Map. Then, in real-time it shows his progress as he moves in my direction, the same way Google Maps would do if you put an address in, and asked it to navigate for you.
The only hitch is that your friends have to have the App first. It’s free in the App store, so next time you’re going to be in a crowded location like a concert or Oktoberfest, download What3Words first, so you can always find one another!
**As a note, it actually has some innovative business uses as well. Check out their website to read more!**