Google Maps for Mobile 4.4 has arrived, along with a 'Places' feature for Android.
The sixth update in six months, Google Maps for Mobile 4.4 is available for handsets toting Android 1.6 and above and brings new functionality.
"With today's launch of Google Maps for mobile 4.4, we're introducing an even easier way to find places around you: a dedicated Places icon that lets you quickly look up nearby places and pick a place to go using updated Place Pages, just like on your computer," explained Michael Siliski, product manager for the Google Mobile Team.
Places icon
"On Android-powered phones with Google Maps 4.4, you'll find the new Places icon in the app launcher with the rest of your app," he adds
"Press and drag it right onto your home screen to use it when you're looking for a restaurant, shoe store, movie theater or any other type of local business.
"You'll get a detailed list of all the nearest places and can choose one to learn more about it on its Place Page."
Caffeineradar.com?
Google has already highlighted one potential use: "You'll also notice that the search results list now highlights business opening hours in addition to compass direction and distance - consider it your late night caffeine radar."
You can get Google Maps for Mobile 4.4 from the Android marketplace now, and Google promises that BlackBerry users will be getting the update soon.
Your comments (4) Click to add a new comment
randomdog
July 29th 2010
4. @si_smith - it'll probably happen when apple cuts them out of the next iOS and replaces it with the inevitable iMaps.
Places is another fantastic addition IMO, there were already a few alternatives on the market (such as Qype, which didn't really work. And Layar, which drained your battery in about 10 minutes and, while cool, was a pain to use) Places on the other hand just WORKS. Been trying it out today and it hasn't let me down yet.
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parasitius
July 29th 2010
3. How about Google fixing the My Maps import function? Highly annoying editing a route on the desktop version of Maps only to find it won't import onto my Desire correctly.
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smokemonster
July 29th 2010
2. I have this and have also used their satnav app. Frankly, I'd happily pay for this stuff, it's superb.
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si_smith
July 29th 2010
1. I wonder how much longer Google will continue to produce Blackberry and iPhone apps, as clearly they can switch them off at any point, and instantly advantage Android.
Android has enough foothold now, and is easily outclassing iOS and Blackberry, so there is no reason for someone upgrading to NOT choose Android, so it's surely only a matter of time...
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