GPS Navigation? Droid does! #Android
I’ve been using google maps for my pc, about as long as I can remember. I started with mapquest, but it always left me wanting for more. So, switching to it was not a difficult choice. I also use it on my G1 as well. Well it’s built right in, so why not?
My mom has as a stand alone GPS system for her car affectionately known as Jill. It works really well, provided that it can find a gps satellite. I’ve been wanting something similar for my phone for awhile now. Google did that. They originally released the Navigation function for Droid 2.0 only. Maybe it was the thought of a million early adopters revolting? We may never know but, they ported a version for (I think) all Droid users.
I downloaded the updated version of google maps. Once that was done I was set, or so I thought.
I opened the app as always and was met with some new features. The menu now brings up Search Directions layers my location latitude and “more”.
The first is obvious,as is directions. Layers is pretty sweet. You click that and are given overlays for Traffic Satellite and latitude. Im not all that familiar with the last one. You can also get locations for Atms and banks, gas stations, places to eat and much more. Clicking more gives you a “My maps” option covering maps you created. Under that is a wikipedia function and the last item shows you transit lines nearby.
SO I clicked navigate and was asked to download a speech prgram. This is what gives your gps device the voice. LIke most electronic devices, this one needs a serious overhaul. It’s not much better than that of an electronic talking toy.
That took a few(15) minutes to download thanks in part to, crappy data coverage along I-80 east bound in PA. Once we got closer to NJ the data transfer improved vastly. Should have gone with Verizon, after all there’s a map for that, right?
Anyway, once it was installed, it worked very well. I input my location and destination. Within a few seconds my route was layed out before me. It would have made Columbus weep in its simplicity. I also had the option of alternate routes. Just remember, alternate may be a shorter distance, but a longer drive. I still haven’t worked out how that works yet.
All in all, it’s really great tool,but keep in mind your mileage may vary.
This is my opinion and not that of the website management team.
this is the link for google maps mobile