I went through the iTunes App Store looking for an app that might be useful.  I have downloaded mostly social media apps and wanted something else.  I went through every category except Sports because I have no use for an app related to sports.  I saw an application for Telnet, one for SSH and one for Terminal that interested me.  Since they weren’t free I decided to download those only if I had occasion to need them.  I’ve already paid for these same apps on the Windows CE (ancestor to Windows Mobile) and Palm OS platforms.  I also saw apps for virtual lighters.  I don’t get the concept but, hey, maybe it’s just me.

I saw an app that included the Metrorail map and schedule for DC.  I can get that on PDF or use the web page directly so I didn’t get that one.  I then stumbled upon DC Traffic Cam app from 3rd Dimension, Inc.  I can immediately see how I will use this as I’ve been known to call folks out of the blue asking them to look at the traffic cameras in order to plan an alternate route when I’m stuck in traffic.

The app enables you to see live video from DC area (MD, VA, DC) traffic cams.  Here are some screen shots.

It is very spy movie-ish to have access to these cameras on my phone.

The only things I don’t like about the app are 1) the ads (why are they advertising Philadelphia on DC traffic cams?) and 2) many of the cameras are misclassified (a lot of Virginia cameras show up as Maryland and vice versa).  I guess I can’t complain since it was free.

DC’s traffic is serious business so DC Traffic Cam is a good app.  3rd Dimension Traffic Cam apps are also available for New York, Los Angeles, Connecticut, Indianapolis, Detroit, Houston, Kansas, and Knoxville.  According to 3rd Dimension’s website locations coming soon are Albany, Buffalo, Chattanooga, Cinncinati, Columbus, Louisville, Memphis, Milwaukee, Rochester and Syracuse.  Traffic camera apps are available for England and Canada from other developers.