Droid Does GPS Navigation

Should the GPS market be shaking about Google Maps Navigation? Probably not. But Droid users will be interested to know about this fantastic new feature offered by Google. And it’s free. Here’s the demo on YouTube.

Google Maps Navigation for Android 2.0, is an internet-connected GPS navigation system that provides turn-by-turn voice guidance.

What does Google Maps Navigation do that a GPS system cannot? The advantage with GMN is that you do not need to have the exact street number, address, and city. Here are seven things that GMN does, that you can’t do with a GPS device.

Seven Features offered with GMN

1. Search in plain English – This feature allows you to type your destination without being precise, even with spelling, as Google search will give you several options to choose from. GPS navigators expect precision.
2. Google search by voice – Just say the destination that you’re going to.
Instead of fumbling with all the buttons, you just speak into the phone, and Google instantly shoots you the place you’re headed to. This feature saves a lot of time and is connected to the Google search engine.
3. Traffic view - This one offers live traffic data, with current traffic conditions that is shown on the map. The data is updated every few minutes.
4. Search along route – Find places that you want to stop at along the way. Use the layered menu for easy access to popular places, or find your favorite local burger joint.
5. Satellite view – Visualize your route with hi-fidelity view while you’re navigating.
6. Street view – This uses Google street view, showing street level images.
7. Car dock mode – Put your Verizon Droid in a car dock and use the car dock mode.