3UK is first to launch Google Maps v2
By Ben Robinson on Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008 at 3:54 PM PST In Ideas and rants, Services, Three
3UK have announced they are the first MNO in Europe to launch Google (NSDQ: GOOG) Maps version 2.
The new version of Google Maps requires a 3G connection, and uses GPS to find your location – in addition to being able to provide you directions to service you might require.
I don’t know about you guys, but I’ve found the general GPS experience on mobile devices to be a littel lacklustre to-date. However, I do remember being wowed when I downed the Java version of Google Maps v1 to an SEM K800i, and then zooming in on my house (using the photo overlay)!
So which is it? Interesting toy, or genuinely useful? I’d love to say that GPS requires a specialist device, but my Sat Nav (by a very well-known manufacturer) has been nothing but trouble!
We’d love to hear your thoughts on whether GPS, or an value-add application such as Google Maps, could be the next ‘killer app’…
[Via: 3G.co.uk]
I use Google maps on my N95 8GB a very regular basis, because it allows me to find my location in seconds. The built in GSM positioning gives your location instantly, then when the GPS kicks in usually a few seconds (30 secs at most) later. I find in invaluable for getting to places in London – I dont see the problems with them as I have none! This for me is a killer app, when more people find out about this it will be big.
Did I miss something? Are they talking about being the first carrier that will bundle Google maps on their phones??? Google Maps V2 has been available for download for a while and free of charge so what is the big deal about 3UK “launching” it???