Google Announces New, More Personal Google Maps

http://youtu.be/THxJHcR1D2c

Google unveiled a completely redesigned version of Google Maps at today’s Google I/O developer’s conference keynote. The new Google Maps is both a visual and functional redesign of the original, and aims to give users a more personalized mapping experience with search recommendations and other features that allow Google Maps to get smarter the more you use it. The new Google Maps uses your home and work locations, starred restaurants and other places, reviews, and information you’ve shared with friends, and also pulls in information from Zagat ratings and your friends’ likes and dislikes to tailor your maps experience with recommendations and landmarks. Images from Google Earth, Google Street View, and useful info cards with business hours, ratings, and reviews are integrated into the map to help you decide where to go. Google has also improved directions, allowing users to compare overlays of multiple modes of transportation to decide whether it’s best to walk, drive, or take public transit. Prospective users can preview the new Google Maps and request an invite here, and it will be rolling out to desktop users “this summer.”