New Google Maps official: Dedicated tablet UI, traffic details, more

Google has officially released a new version of Google Maps for Android and, soon, iPhone and iPad, complete with a new design and the retirement of Latitude among other changes. The new app, which already began rolling out as v.7 to Android users a few hours ago, includes dedicated tablet designs for Android and iPad for the first time, but users may end up confused by the missing “offline maps” feature which is now no longer accessed in the same way.

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Instead, to access maps offline, users must enter “OK Maps” into the search box when the area they wish to later see without a data connection is on-screen. It’s an odd decision for the company, and arguably will see offline use decline. My Maps support is also missing from the new apps, though Google says it will be added in later.

Meanwhile, Latitude and check-ins have been retired from the app, and Google says they’ll disappear from older versions on August 9. Location sharing will instead be handled through Google+, though currently only the Android version supports that.

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It’s the new navigation features that many users will be pleased to see, however. The Google Maps app can now show not only current traffic conditions, but pull up exact incident details; during navigation, Google will also notify users if there’s a faster route available, and refresh the directions accordingly. Again, it’s an Android-only feature to begin with, though iOS will get it in time.

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Explore has been boosted in the new app, too, with search results in Google Now-style cards as you type. Locations for food, hotels, and shopping will all pop up, Google says, and there’s a new rating system that works alongside the Zagat reviews. Offers, from stores like Macy’s and Toys “R” Us, are also embedded straight into the maps too.

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Google Maps for Android is already out, working with Ice Cream Sandwich and above. Google Maps for iPhone and iPad will require iOS 6 or above when it’s released.


New Google Maps official: Dedicated tablet UI, traffic details, more is written by Chris Davies & originally posted on SlashGear.
© 2005 – 2013, SlashGear. All right reserved.

Google Maps update starts rolling out for Android 4.0.3 and higher

On May 7, we saw a leak showing the Google Maps redesign, with Google showing it off officially a little over a week later. That update has since been rolled out for desktop to those in the beta, and is now being pushed to those running Android 4.0.3 and higher. Thus far the Google Play store has been updated with the new change log, but it might be a bit before you see the actual update come your way.

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Says the change log on Google Play, the update is “gradually” rolling out to Android 4.0.3 and higher over the next few weeks, while those who are running older versions of the mobile operating system will need to head over to Google to find out what versions their device will run. Google points users to a link on Google Play, but it currently leads to a 404.

The updated Maps features “enhanced navigation,” which encompasses dynamic rerouting, incident reports on situations in your area, and live updates on traffic. In addition, the exploration options have also been updated with this app, including a changed up means of browsing for locations, as well as discovery new places in various categories.

The new experiences feature is specific to tablets, allowing users to explore inside certain buildings. There’s also the 360-degree Street View, the ability to garner tailored recommendations, pull up past searches, save your favorite locations, and more. Google advises that not all features are available in certain countries, however.

According to those who have already nabbed the new version, there have been some changes that not everyone is happy with, among them being the elimination of offline maps and Latitude. Some are reporting that they can’t access their saved notes and maps after updating, as well, while others are having trouble locating offline options.

SOURCE: Google Maps


Google Maps update starts rolling out for Android 4.0.3 and higher is written by Brittany Hillen & originally posted on SlashGear.
© 2005 – 2013, SlashGear. All right reserved.

Google Maps Street View Show Off Shops From Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley

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