Google Maps hasn't missed out on a mention at Google I/O after Director of Google Maps Daniel Graf used his spot at the event to extol the virtues of the new and improved Google Maps for mobile.
After briefly highlighting the success of his company's Google Maps for iOS product (and getting in a sly dig at the accuracy of Apple's own mapping service), Graf unveiled a wealth of fresh features including a new look and stressed an emphasis on finding new experiences.
"We talked earlier about the power of Google Maps data - Maps is about going beyond just navigation and is about discovery" said Graf.
Improved social integration from within search functions was demonstrated as well as a redesigned interface that allows easier navigation through returned results on mobile devices.
Alongside this, a tie-up with independent reviews site Zagat means that information on restaurants and eateries can be combined with search via the use of 'badges', and a standardised 5 point rating system is to be rolled out across all Maps products regardless of platform.
Probably the most useful improvement for mobile however is the expanded functionality offered within navigation. Live traffic data is being added and the service will also dynamically re-route users in realtime using that very same data.
Graf went on to reveal that Google wants to build personalised maps with more immersive imagery but added that in order to achieve this, the app will need a complete rebuild.
by deanq via Featured Articles
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