Skyhook Wireless, provider of the Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS), upgraded the publicly available Skyhook SDK to include Android support, as well as simpler deployment models.

The company says developers can now offer iPhone-quality positioning in location-aware Android applications. “I have investigated the new Skyhook SDK and look forward to integrating it into the Android version of our application,” stated Brady Becker, co-founder of the social networking application BrightKite, in a press release. “I am thrilled that we can offer our Android users the same reliable, fast and accurate location performance that they have come to expect on the iPhone.”

By adding hybrid positioning methodology to the SDK, Skyhook says it offers reliable location results to consumers in all environments. “Consumers today expect location-aware applications to work everywhere they travel,” stated Ted Morgan, CEO of Skyhook. “By enhancing our Wi-Fi Positioning functionality with cell tower triangulation and GPS support, Skyhook gives developers the opportunity to provide fast and accurate location results that meet consumer standards.”

The upgraded SDK is 75% smaller than previous versions, designed for deployment in mobile applications and devices with size constraints. Symbian enhancements now include support for the PSY interface on S60. On Windows Mobile, Skyhook now supports the GPS Intermediate Driver. Skyhook also added a feature that automatically enables Wi-Fi, improving the user experience by saving battery and reducing user interaction with the location functionality.  

Developers can license the Skyhook SDK on a per unit/user basis. Ad revenue share models are also available in conjunction with Skyhook’s advertising partners. The SDK is available for download at http://www.skyhookwireless.com/developers/sdk.php.