Following last week’s official announcement, Google Maps 2.0 has now officially launched on the iOS App Store – a major updating bringing official iPad support (for the first time), indoor maps, improved navigation, live traffic updates, restaurant reviews, dynamic re-routing if you miss a turn (or based on traffic conditions) and more!
From the App Store:
What’s New in Version 2.0
● New design for iPad
● Enhanced navigation including live traffic updates and incident reports
● Explore: A new way to browse and discover popular local places to eat, drink, shop, play and sleep
● Simple 5-star ratings and reviews from friends, plus expert Zagat content
● Great deals from your favorite brands with Google Offers
● Indoor maps with walking directions for malls, transit stations, airports and more
The indoor navigation is something I am particularly excited about – it includes support for a number of major shopping centers, airports, museums, and more, with new locations being added regularly. I frequently get disoriented trying to find my way through buildings – so this will be the knockout feature for me.
The interface seems fast, fluid, and easy to use, and the new Explore function, which lets users find restaurants, hotels, and other places of business (along with user comments, reviews, Zagat ratings, and occasional special offers via Google Offers) shows a whole lot of potential. We’ll have more to say once we get a chance to really dig through the update and try it out for ourselves. One things for sure, however: This is a VERY major update, and brings a whole lot of awesome to the table.
Google Maps 2.0 is a free update, and is available immediate for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch from the App Store.
- Google Maps 2.0 (free, App Store link).
*Note: Google Maps 2.0 is still rolling out across various regions, so if you can’t download it yet, you should be able to soon! Keep trying!
