Google Maps has been a cornerstone service for Android since the launch of Google"s Mobile OS. iPhone has also taken advantage of Google Maps, but unsurprisingly, Android has reaped the benefit of receiving key updates sooner and more frequently. Google has again added further functionality to the Android iteration with the recent addition of public transportation schedules, Google Place Page integration, and the ability to add Google Latitude contacts.
When using Google Maps on an Android device, tapping on a bus or train station will now result in full schedule of departures. This is a feature that has been available on the desktop version for a while, but a service like this really is more suited to mobile devices. Similarly, when tapping on a business or restaurant, information and reviews will be presented based on the most common search terms. Finally, Google Latitude functionality will provide information about friends" whereabouts.
These additions are welcome and continue to strengthen Android"s services portfolio. Even with the launch of iPhone 4, Apple is still outmatched in certain areas such as this.
These new features are available for all Android 1.6+ handsets and the update can be found in the Android Market.