Google Adds Sat Nav to Maps Application

Google have rolled out the latest Beta version of their Maps application on their Android platform phones in the UK. Allowing all Android users, who are on version 1.6 and above, to use their mobile phones as a fully featured Satellite Navigation device. Over the last few months the Maps app for smartphones has seen extra functions added to it including individual layers of information, such as live traffic updates, that can be overlaid on top of the current view and now with this new version available to download it is set to become the must update application for Android phones.

The application combines all of the features of Google’s powerful Maps service, including Street View, and integrates full voice guidance to provide an impressive free application. When linked up to their impressive search by voice app you can also simply say your destinations into the phone and it will find the route you’ve requested, adding a rarely seen function outside of integrated Sat Nav systems.

Google have said that the Maps application is used by close to 50 million people on a daily basis, thanks to the increase in the number of people shifting from their old phone to the current generation of smartphones and with the decrease in costs for data contracts the figure is expected to grow even further. Currently the application takes the data and loads the maps from Google’s vast data centres, however if you are worried about roaming charges outside of the UK then you can download your route before setting off.

Although initially released just for Android phones both Blackberry and the iPhone should have their own versions in the works fairly shortly.

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