Google’s Android 2.0 gets Google Maps Navigation
The next version of Google’s mobile operating system, Android 2.0, can turn your mobile device into a complete navigational GPS using Google Maps.
According to the Official Google Blog, Android 2.0 is going to be turning phones into full turn-by-turn GPS navigation systems. Gone will be the days of having to read directions you printed off from Google Maps, or trying to read them on your cell phone screen as you drive. Now you will be shown a full map with arrows and all of the other goodies you want from a GPS.
The new mobile implementation of Google Maps will feature things such as 3D views, turn-by-turn voice guidance and automatic rerouting along with tools that are unique to the Google brand. The maps will be constantly updated live over the air, so you will never need to download or purchase updates. As Google Maps can have corrections submitted by users constantly, this should give you the newest information every time you use the application. You will also be able to get real-time traffic updates that will be indicated by a green, yellow or red light indicator in the top corner of the map so you will always know what sort of traffic to expect along your route.
Voice navigation will be essential since you are driving. You will need to hold down a button and then you will be able to say things like “Navigate to Pike Place in Seattle”, and the map will do the rest of the work for you.
Satellite and Street View will also be enabled so that you can easily see if you are in the right place, and will be especially handy if you are going to a location for the first time.
According to Engadget, the phone will also have a car dock detection which will enlarge the view of the app so you can see it more easily from a distance. Things like icons will be larger so you don’t have to study the screen as intently as you operate your vehicle.
The first phone to have the new feature will be the Verizon Droid.
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