Genius: application combines information from Google Maps with that from Wikipedia

With Halloween approaching, I can't stop thinking about monsters – more specifically, mutants. It may seem like a strange way to start an article about technology, but I promise it will make sense.

For days now, an idea has been on my mind: some of the most useful applications out there would be even more incredible if we could combine them to create a “super powerful” tool, like a kind of mutant application. And I can't think of better examples than Google Maps and Wikipedia.

Maps offers a world of useful information about the places around us, while Wikipedia is an inexhaustible source of knowledge about just about anything.

Now imagine: what if it were actually possible to combine the two into an app that shows you relevant information about physical locations near you – or anywhere you want to explore?

It's time to activate your “mad scientist” side and get to know this new technological “mutant” that promises to make the day even more interesting.

WIKIPEDIA AND GOOGLE MAPS IN ONE APP

If you think about it, it's strange that Wikipedia doesn't already have a map-based navigation option – a way to explore the vast content it offers based on your physical location or the place you plan to visit.

The good news is that a new tool, called NearbyWikiwas created to fill this gap. It is a simple and easy to use hybrid creation. It only takes a few seconds to get familiar with it. All you have to do is access the website on the device you are using.

Once the page opens, you will see a map of your current location with pins marked with the letter “W”, indicating places around you that are on Wikipedia.

If none appear, try zooming out or moving around the map until you find a busier area. You can also use the search icon in the top right corner to go directly to another specific place.

Then, just click on any pin to open a window popup with information about the location. If you want to go deeper, just click to open the full article on the website itself.

In the bottom left corner, you will find a button that gives you access to a list of all the places in your area with Wikipedia entries, which makes navigation even easier.

It's a whole new way to explore the platform's vast content and discover the world around you – a fun and very useful combination.

– NearbyWiki is a web application that works on any browser and device, with no downloads or installations required.

– It's completely free, with just a few unobtrusive ads.

– No need to log in or provide personal information.

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