Google has released free turn-by-turn satellite navigation for a few Android customers in the UK and Ireland. The company had released the same for its US customers six months earlier.
This nascent function was released in beta form on Wednesday. It is reported that Google Maps Navigation can display traffic conditions, satellite or street views, and functions with voice commands. It has been reported that it will function with any handset that sports version 1.6 or higher of the Android Operating System.
Google Maps Chief, Steve Lee revealed at the London launch event, the navigation system will furnish an immersive 3D mapping experience.
It has been revealed that Lee placed the onus of the wavering US and UK releases on many issues that arose during development, which include business and technical concerns.
He revealed that one cause that had led to the late UK release was the comparative popularity of roundabouts in road layouts.
Lee evinced that Google was even contemplating upon the possibility of allowing preloading of regional maps. However, he maintained, “What is really important is keeping the experience really simple for users. We don't think mainstream users will sideload regional maps".