Google Maps is getting a new look and new features. On the web, as predicted, Google Maps will have a cleaner design and is more personalized. The map is now the interface, and results appear on cards on the map. You can also search the places your friends have visited, recommended and photographs. When you are logged in to Google, you will see the results that best suit you, including the landmarks that are important for you.
When you click on a place on Google Maps, it updates actively – so if small roads near the restaurant you are viewing were not labeled, as soon as you click on them, they are. Maps are now dynamic, depending on what you are looking at. As we said earlier today, transport data has been overhauled, meaning you can always pick the right way to get where you’re going.
There are some really impressive 3D images from Google Earth. It requires no plug-ins, you can see everything from your browser. Zooming out to see the whole world, you can see Earth in real time in space, with real time clouds.
New Google Maps is available by invite, and you can sign up here: Google Maps desktop preview.
A new version of Google Maps is coming out for Android and iOS this summer, with dedicated smartphone and tablet versions.
Ratings for businesses and services have a 5 star review system across the board, and review service Zagat is integrated into the app, so you can see user reviews from Google and expert reviews too. Tablets get a brand new interface too, with much better, more visual search results.
