Pod SnapShot

A Pod SnapShot, or PSS, is a digital file that contains information that can be viewed easily on an iPod using the iPod's "Notes" feature.

For example, a PSS about a particular place may include details on closest transport links, nearby cash or ATM machines, banks, places to eat, nearby attractions and shopping, etc. This information can be useful if planning to travel to that area - maybe on vacation or holiday.

Similarly, a PSS about a specific event may include travel directions, entry costs, event highlights and programme, performers, contact details, entry costs, etc.

As Pod SnapShots are text-based with a simple XML-type header, they can be viewed on many different computers and devices, including handheld computers and PDAs - however, the structure of a Pod SnapShot, (with its files, folders and subfolders), has been designed in such a way to make it easy and intuitive to navigate on an iPod.

Some SnapShots can be download for free, while others must be paid for.

Free SnapShots

Free SnapShots can be found on many websites around the Internet and in the PSS directory on www.expodition.com. As they are free, there should typically be no need to register or sign in to a website in order to download a free Pod SnapShots.

Typically, free Pod SnapShots are guides for popular attractions, events, places to visit, shops, hotels and places to stay, clubs, pubs and bars, etc. They contain information such as opening and closing times, entry costs, contact information, etc.

Pay SnapShots

SnapShots that you pay for are created specifically for an individual based on a combination of their profile and a specific area – for example a postcode or ZIP code.

Currently, this type of Pod SnapShot is only available from www.expodition.com, and requires user registration in order to set up a profile detailing likes, dislikes, etc. This information is then used to build a Pod SnapShot tailored to the individual whenever a postcode is entered.

For example, if the profile says that the individual likes visiting pubs and clubs, eating pizza and shopping non-stop, the PSS generated for a specific area will contain details about the nearest pubs, clubs, pizza restaurants and shopping facilities - together with other details about that area such as transport links. If the profile says that the individual also likes visiting museums and the arts, then the Pod SnapShot will contain this information too.

To ensure that they're always up to date, these Pod SnapShots are created automatically by expodition using the latest information available.

This term Pod SnapShot was coined by Rod Cambridge as he developed his website, expodition.