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July 11, 2013

Google releases upgraded Android Maps application

Google ditched features including Latitude, check-ins, offline maps and My Maps services in the latest mapping app

By CBR Staff Writer

Google has revamped the mapping application for Android smartphones and tablets that claimed to offer enhanced local search, and incorporates dynamic traffic reports, while it has ditched popular latitude service.

The redesigned app, to be launched for iPhones and iPads can display reports of trouble on selected routes and automatically offers better routes to reach selected destinations.

Google’s new traffic-management software also features accident-warning reports in real time and dynamic rerouting when significant changes occur in traffic conditions.

Google Maps director Daniel Graf said that the new Google Maps for mobile builds on the design earlier released for iPhone in December 2012 and improves on it with a few useful search and navigation features.

"It’s a new mapping experience that makes exploring the world and getting to the places that matter to you a lot faster and easier,"Graf said.

The app also incorporates ‘Explore’ feature that allows users to browse and discover new places, without typing anything, while when users tap the search box, a list of recommended places is offered.

As part of the upgrade, Google ditched features including Latitude, check-ins from the new Maps app, which are scheduled to be axed by 09 August 2013, while other features such as offline maps, My Maps have also been axed.

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"We understand some of you still want to see your friends and family on a map, which is why we’ve added location sharing and check-ins to Google+ for Android," Graf said.

However, the search firm revealed plans to add the Latitude feature to gadgets powered by Apple’s mobile operating system.

Google reported that users can access offline maps feature for Android by typing ‘OK Maps’ into the search box when viewing the region.

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