Yellow Pages - iPhone App Review

Yellow Pages (Free)

Version 1.9

REVIEW - "Yellow Pages romances the iPhone"

The basic function of the Yellow Pages application lies in delivering relevant search results based on your location. The initial screen, as observed below, provides a search field, and a tab to change the already provided location. This is definitely my favorite feature of the application- it automatically detects your location (listed below the search field in the screenshot). Providing a location in unfamiliar places can be quite the challenge, and this feature can be quite the time saver.

Gone are the days of frantic page flipping, internet searches and phone calls. The suave Yellow Pages application for iPhone takes the directory right out of the book and into your pocket. Yes, it may certainly appear boring next to applications like Spongebob Tickler, but in dire situations of car breakdowns, lost maps, and medical mishaps, it will be far more useful and appreciated than an animated sponge across your screen.

The one tap technology utilized further increases the usability of the application. In a simple tap, a map will reveal driving directions, the plus sign shown below next to business information will transfer it to your contacts, and a business phone number can be called by simply tapping on the blue numbers.
What makes this application a fantastic is asset is its sheer convenience. It is at your disposal regardless of what you are doing, when you are doing it or where you are. You can drive your car, take a walk, or even exercise while simply tapping once to call a business, or find directions This convenience is also evident in the application's quick search feature in which shortcuts for common terms such auto services and pizza are provided, as can be viewed in the screenshot.

Nevertheless, the application has room for improvement. Something I would love to see is a system which tracks all past desired locations so I can revisit destinations I may want to go to again. Each location should consist of phone numbers, driving directions and maps. This way, you wouldn't have to redo the same search process for a repeat location - something I don't enjoy doing right now. Another feature which would be great to have would be providing snapshots or live views of desired locations, a feature I have found to really useful on Google maps, as often when directions, maps and all else fails, the memory of a certain building in the area leads me to the right destination. A tiny glitch lies in the fact that the application is compatible with the iPod touch, but the location may have to be manually set due to connectivity limitations. This would bother me, as I find it to be the most efficient feature.

Despite the minor quirks, this application is a lifesaver. Especially for someone as accident prone as I am. I tend to be in all the wrong places at the wrong time without anything but my phone. Even if you are rather coordinated, you never know when a strange situation arises, and you made need to navigate your way out of it. If you are looking for a safety net, this is it. Everything you need is at your disposal. Here's wishing Yellow Pages and the iPhone a long life of marital bliss!

- Trisha S.
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