google-maps-navigation

Google has just announced Google Maps Navigation app for Android 2.0 devices. Google regards this as the next step for Google Maps for mobile. Google Maps Navigation is currently in Beta status. The just released app brings features such as 3D view, turn by turn voice guidance (wow! really cool) and automatic rerouting. Now that’s my idea of making the best use of technology. Below, we have listed the feature that this app brings and also a cool video that shows the app in action.

Google Maps Navigation features

Always accesses latest map data

  • Google Maps Navigation app uses Internet connectivity to its maximum potential and uses the latest map data for providing navigation directions.

Simple and Easy to search

  • You don’t need to remember the complete and accurate address. Just enter the name of a business, a landmark or something that will get you to your desired destination

Search by Voice

  • Now this is cool. I don’t need to type everytime I need to search a particular address. You can always search by voice. This is particularly useful, considering the scenario of a person driving a car and needing navigational directions for reaching the destination.

Traffic View

  • This cool app provides a detailed Traffic view. The app displays a traffic indicator light which glows green, red or yellow depending on the traffic level along your route. So you can always know in advance if there is a traffic jam.

Search along route

  • Google Maps Navigation searches along your route to give you results that won’t take you far from your path. You can search for a specific business by name or by type, or you can turn on popular layers, such as gas stations, restaurants or parking.

Satellite View

  • This app uses the same Satellite View that is used with Google Maps for desktop. As one expects, Satellite view provides a 3D and high resolution view of your upcoming route

Street View

  • You can always double-tap the map to zoom into Street View to know what your next turn looks like. Double clicking shows the turn as you’ll see it, with your route overlaid. To help you reach your destination it will also display an image of your destination

Droid to be the first to get Google Maps Navigation

The yet to be released Motorola Droid will be the first device to get this app.

Google Maps Navigation is initially available in the United States. It is currently targeting the Android 2.0 powered devices

Check out the video to see the app in action