Google Maps adds voice navigation to Android phones

Google has updated the Google Maps app that comes with all Android phones running version 1.6 or higher. People with those devices will now be able to get free turn-by-turn directions from Point A to Point B following voice guidance provided by the phone.

Canadians have waited on this feature since Google Maps Navigation debuted for U.S. customers last November. Google has updated the Canadian version of Maps to include support for:

• Voice guidance – turn by turn directions
• Traffic updates - See near-real-time traffic data to help you decide how busy the highway is before you leave
• Business search – Find businesses within an area (like hotels along a trip path)
• Suggested search – misspell an address or location and Google will correct it or provide a list of choices to ensure you’re going to the right place
• Street view - See the route in ground-level “Street View”

Users with an Android 2.0 or higher phone (Acer Liquid e, Motorola Milestone or Nexus One) will be able to use added features like Voice Search. Simply say, “Take me to that new First Nations exhibit,” and Maps will navigate to the Museum of Vancouver. Users with Android 1.6 (Sony Ericsson XPERIA X10 or HTC Magic) will only be able to access the other features mentioned.

A dedicated GPS device won’t be necessary for much longer since Google Maps Navigation is free and constantly updates and synchronizes with updated map data rather than storing the information on your phone. However, if a data connection is lost while navigating, the information is downloaded to the phone and directions will continue until you reach your destination. Here’s a video demo of GMN running on a Droid (the U.S. version of the Milestone).

Source: YouTube