Google has taken the wraps off new software which makes its Google Local service (also known as Google Maps) easier to use and navigate on Java-capable mobile phones.
Google Local for Mobile, still in beta release, is available as a free download for mobile users, and supports most J2ME Java-based phones, which includes most phones released within the last year, particularly via mobile providers Sprint, T-Mobile, and Cingular. Users will need to subscribe to a data services plan from their provider; Google Local for Mobile does not support BREW-enabled phones sold by Verizon, AllTel, or U.S. Cellular), BlackBerry or Palm devices, or Nextel phones.
In addition to displaying street-level maps of addresses, Google Local enables users to search for addresses and nearby businesses, display step-by-step and graphic directions (right on the map!) between locations, and easily zoom in and out of maps and move the maps in all directions so users can orient themselves. Users can input addresses by typing via their phone keypad, clicking right on the map, or selecting a point from a list of recent places. Contrary to some press reports, Google says Google Local for Mobile does not use GPS data to locate the user, even if a phone has a built-in GPS unit.
Google Mobile for Local maps can also be displayed using available satellite imagery, which can sometimes help users better understand the maps or where they are. (The satellite images are not real-time; although some are older than others, many of the available satellite images are several years old.)
Google Local is currently ad-free, although Google has made no secret of its desire to tie advertising for local businesses into its mapping service. The bulk of Google’s business revenue comes from advertising. Google Local for Mobile is currently available only in the United States.
