Google has introduced a new version of Google Maps especially for Android supported phones reveals the official blog. They have unveiled a range of innovative features and also fixed a few issues with Google Latitude.
Now the search application is refined which utilizes users’ voice in a much simpler way than browsing. Users can find addresses, a business, or nearby windsurfing spots, just by articulating their inquiry and Google Maps searches it. Presently, the Google voice recognition engine comprehends American, Australian, and British English accents. Moreover, the business listings incorporate information like store hours, prices, ratings and reviews. These details facilitate users to make a better choice, regarding the place of visit.
Google has also introduced transit and walking directions to Google Maps for Android users. They can also obtain directions via public transportation in over 250 cities, namely New York City and San Francisco. Further, for strollers there is ‘pedestrian-only pathways’ feature that helps users to stay away from one way restrictions.
Android-based Google Maps have borne major up gradations when compared with the Google Latitude. Google has overcome the problem that brought about background location updates occasionally. Presently, with the ‘Detect your location’ functionality from the Latitude privacy menu users receive updated locations till their phone is on.
The company has also launched a trial feature ‘Updates’ that facilitates users to correspond with friends and also post messages. The Updates tab on Latitude enables users to forward updates to their friends wherever they are located. However the application needs to be installed on both the communicating phones. This recent upgrade would not automatically install on the phone, users need to download it from the Android store.
This app firmly blends the Street View on Android, and users can try it from any search result where imagery is accessible. Further they can also long-press any point on the map, in map view or satellite view, and they can view a Street View thumbnail wherever imagery is available.
The upgrade is available for download in the Android Market.