New updates for the Google Maps is coming real soon, probably this Wednesday and not so surprisingly on the same day Apple will be releasing the new iOS which will be removing Google Maps from all iOS devices and kick in its own mobile maps.
As for Android devices, the new Google Maps will augment the search experience and make it much easier to use and you will also be able to personalize your map searches.
Speaking of augmenting the search experience, all of your Android devices will be synced with Google Maps. The things that you will search on Google Maps on your desktop will instantly become available on to your Android devices. For instance, in the morning you looked for a restaurant on your desktop and later in the evening you again went to Google Maps to look for a restaurant. As soon as you start writing in search box Google Maps will suggest you the previous searches you have made on your PC or any other Android device.
Vice president of engineering Google Maps Brian McClendon said that you do not type that much fast on your phones. So, our aim was to reduce typing. When he was asked about the Apple’s mobile map he refused to comment on it. But one thing is for sure, Google Maps definitely has the advantage of massive search engine Google backing all of its searches and data.
McClendon believes that really sets apart Google from the rest is its experience in the creating maps. He said Google has been doing this for seven years now and making maps is not easy. You need to put in a lot of effort and time to figure out how it is done properly. Experience is its crux.
Another feature that really stands out in Google Maps is the Google Map Maker which allows you to add in places and locations you know but Google does not. This is something really amazing and adds more depth to Google Maps. Whether it is a hiking trail in Namibia or an overpass that no longer exists in New York you can add anything. But Google with its algorithms and Street View photographs authenticates the legitimacy of your edits.
Referring to the Street View McClendon said that Google works on the world’s largest image database. It utilizes computer to update changes on the streets. In the beginning Google licensed its maps’ data, just Apple is planning to do, but then it started creating maps of its own by taking data from different agencies such as public transit data has been taken from various transit agencies. Not only that, Google has also mapped out the Tokyo subway stations from inside, guiding people to their closest destinations.
You can also go to your previous searches under the My Places section. And to save time you can also save addresses such as you work place or home address. With this you do not need to enter address over and over again, simply type home or work place and Google Map will give you the directions.
