Google Maps

When needing to get directions or locate something on a map Google Maps is the place to go for all of your location and destination needs. This application will help you get to any destination, no address needed. Being able to save your places, change the mode of travel and edit your routes are also useful tools when using Google Maps.

The point of Google Maps is to get you to where you need to go. Getting started is easy by just going to http://maps.google.com/. On the home screen you can type in an address, landmark, or destination and by pressing the search button you will be taken to that place on a map. This is useful if you need to find where something is on a map like a national park or a business. To find directions to a place just click the "get direction" button. Here you can type in your desired addresses/destinations in the Point A/Point B boxes to help you find where you need to go. One cool feature of Google Maps is it's ability to find your location for you, so if you want to find out how to get somewhere from where you are and location services are enabled, you only need to type in your destination in the Point B space. Maybe you just wish to roam the landscape of the world? Clicking and dragging on the map will take you anywhere you want. Zooming in and out using the + and - buttons will show more or less on the map.

Clicking on "my places" allows you to create places on a map, lets you star your favorite places, and you can also view places that you have rated or where you have checked in. Google Maps lets you be customize your experience as much as you desire. When finding directions you can change your mode of transportation from car to public transportation, bike, or walking. When driving somewhere you can also choose to avoid highways or tolls by clicking "show options" under your destination. Finding the reverse directions are also easy by clicking the up/down arrow button. There are also buttons that allow you to print your directions (with or without the map) and allow you to email or instant message a link.

Google Maps is a tool for everyone. It's interface is simple and will get anyone from point A to point B. It is one of the multiple applications to come from Google and may just be the most popular. Social interaction and communication is not the primary focus for this application however adding those functions would make the app more appealing and even more user friendly than it already is.