Google has in the last few days released a few updates for their Google Maps software. Android users in the UK and Ireland running 1.6 and above and Blackberry users too will be happy to find out that they now have free Navigation in addition to the Voice Search which has also been added to Symbian & Windows Mobile versions.
Like other satnav devices, Navigation includes 3D views, turn-by-turn voice guidance, and automatic rerouting. But because Google Maps Navigation is connected to the Internet, it also features powerful functionality you can’t get from other satnav services, including the most up to date map, business, and traffic data, access to satellite and street views, and of course, search.
Search by voice lets you easily search for anything by simply speaking your search terms instead of typing them. Just open Google Maps, press your phone’s “call” button, and clearly speak your search term like “Park Plaza.” Search by voice works with all the kinds of searches Google Maps for mobile already supports, including places, addresses (1600 Amphitheatre Parkway), specific businesses (The French Laundry), or types of businesses (sushi restaurants new york).
Like Nokia who has recently given free turn-by-turn navigation to a select number of devices via Ovi Maps, Google has done the same. This is real bad news for Satnav manufacturers, where do they go from here? Can they still afford to charge for Satnav solutions when clearly their mobile counterparts are being given away for free and with additional functionality such as updating on the go.
Google Maps 4.1 is available from m.google.com/maps for Symbian & Windows Mobile users, whilst Android users should check the Android Marketplace for their updates.
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