[chrismear]

From the article:

"The app isn't running in the background; it's working server-to-server."

So presumably all they've done is a deal with AT&T to access the cell-location data for a subscriber, and using the app to tie that into their Loopt identity. Nothing special going on inside the iPhone OS.

[cyunker]

Interesting. So it shouldn't affect battery life.

[sh1mmer]

I wondered about this. It was discussed about how Pre sends a location update with its debug bundle. I wondered why Apple didn't send a location update when they pole for the push update.

It wouldn't have to happen every time, but once every 5-10 minutes would be a good balance of phone battery and timeliness.