Although Apple might be scrambling to get some sort of mapping device on a mobile phone together, Google Maps aren?t faltering. One of the things that mobile users love most, especially the directionally challenged as my mom would say, is the ability to use Google maps. You never have to worry about printing out directions before you leave your house because you have your phone, and now things are about to get even better.
As of October 9 of this year, Google will bring street view to mobile browsers. It?s not the most exciting news in the world, but it?s something that will make a difference in the long run for the mobile user as well as Google itself.
Why a Google Street View Matters
This latest update is helping Google Maps stay on top when it comes to mapping software on a mobile phone. For those who are unfamiliar, Apple tried to out-do Google Maps a few weeks ago by coming up with their own mapping software, but failed fairly miserably. In the end, the devices were back to using Google Maps. You can read more about that story here.
A few of the perks that users get with the Google Maps street view include:
- Panoramic level imagery to help you see where you are going and check out places nearby. This will work even when you?re on the move.
- If you save a link to Maps on your iOS device as a bookmark, you can use it on any browser (not just the usual Safari).
- You still have the option of keeping the traditional Maps layout; however there is an option to see both images side by side.
The question then remains: With Google Maps only improving and Apple failing, will they ever find real competition? Are you excited about the new changes, or are you hoping to still see Apple or another company come up with something new? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Photo Credit: trickybloggers.com
Amanda DiSilvestro gives small business and entrepreneurs SEO advice ranging from keyword density to recovering from Panda and Penguin updates. She writes for Highervisibility, a nationally recognized SEO firm that offers online marketing services to a wide range of companies across the country.?
