IAC to launch Ask Mobile GPS service

Reuters inform: “IAC/InterActiveCorp. said it launched on Friday a new mobile application for its Ask.com Web search service to help consumers find friends, shops and services based on their location at a given moment.”

“Ask Mobile GPS,” or Global Positioning System, was launched on Ask.com’s Web site on Friday and will be available next week on Sprint Nextel Corp. through a deal between the No. 3 U.S. wireless carrier and WaveMarket, which provides location-based services for mobile phones.

“The service will be offered for $9.99 per month on seven phone models currently offered by Sprint. IAC aims to expand the service to other U.S. carriers and may offer more basic tools to consumers for free, company executives told Reuters.”

“In addition to search and GPS-enabled maps and directions, Ask Mobile GPS will offer Web services from within IAC’s family, beginning with its Citysearch guide for shops and restaurants and its Evite online party planner.”