Finding your friends while out on the town on a Saturday night often means lots of "where r u?" text messages or phone calls with so much background noise it's impossible to hear the response. Useful Networks introduces sniff (Social Network Integrated Friend Finder), the latest in location-based systems with social networking integration.

sniff is a permission-based application that lets consumers locate their close friends in real-time, automatically, anytime and anywhere with their mobile phone or from Facebook. Once consumers receive permission from their friends, using sniff is as simple as sending an SMS text message. sniff provides consumers with a detailed map view of their friends' locations.

"There is inherent value in allowing your close friends and family to know where you are, but only when you want them to," said Useful Networks CEO Brian Levin. "Friends can now 'sniff' each other out easily and quickly - that is, if they want to be found. You can easily become 'invisible' if you'd rather not be 'sniffed' out.'"

The sniff privacy model is based on the fundamental principles of user notice and consent. sniff has varying levels of privacy so each user can determine if they want to be found and by whom. sniff also provides multiple confirmation notices to new users reminding them they have joined the sniff network so all users are aware of their status and permission levels.

sniff will be released on major wireless carriers in the United States, Canada, and France in the coming months. To find more information on sniff or to begin "sniffing out" friends today, visit http://www.sniffu.com.