Loopt introduces location-based messaging feature for any phone

Loopt is a service for sharing your geographic location and your current activities with friends. The company has done an impressive job of cutting deals to get its services on mobile devices, including the Boost mobile network and Sprint phones — other mobile-focused startups struggle to get such access. However, it hasn’t had a way to reach users on other carriers, such as AT&T and Verizon.

Today, the Mountain View, California company has rolled out a feature where a current Loopt user can send a text message or instant message to friends who are with non-Loopt carriers. The message includes a link that friends can follow to see a map showing the user’s location. Example: “I’m at The Nuthouse [a Palo Alto bar], grab a drink with me,” with the location stating the cross streets as “California and Birch” and the map link.

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On its site, the company says that its service itself will soon be available on the other carriers.

While Google, Yahoo and other large companies are also working on location-based social applications, Loopt has a head start. It has offered its service for over a year. It has also received funding from high-profile investors including Sequoia and New Enterprise Associates.