Google Maps on the iPhone

I downloaded the new Google Maps app for the iPhone but had not much time to explore it until today.  Google has a great website with screenshots that show the features at http://maps.google.com/help/maps/helloworld/iphone/quicktips.html 

One of the features is the ability to view a street view by clicking a site, holding your finger down on the screen and then tapping the address.  The first place I tapped (our home) did not show a street view :-(  .  As it turns out, it is because Google did not have a street view available.  I tapped on another place near the university and it displayed correctly.

One of many differences between Apple Maps and Google Maps is the way you report a problem.  Apple has the report a problem almost invisible (gray print on gray background), whereas, to report a problem with Google Maps, all you have to do is to shake your phone. Google Maps also has a place to enter your home and work addresses.

It is amazing to think back to the many years that we depended upon purchasing a paper map for directions.  I would not consider traveling without having my iPhone or iPad and the map apps.

Google Maps and the Apple App Store

Just yesterday, I wrote a blog about using Apple Maps and Siri. I noted that Apple maps directions did have an error for a Georgia highway.  Today, MacWorld reported that Google Maps is back in the Apple App store as of yesterday.  Sure enough - it is there! 

Apparently, Apple has recognized the problem with the Apple Maps software. The Apple Maps issues are not a problem for me when I am using the app in places where I know how to navigate without the app, but it has the potential of causing significant problems if you are going to an unknown place. 

Google Crisis Map - Hurricane Sandy

Google is working to assist with victims of Hurricane Sandy with Google Crisis Maps.  The link is at
http://google.org/crisismap/2012-sandy

For example the map includes the ability to view:  It is amazing how much technology has improved since Hurricane Katrina.  My friend, Deb, is one of the hurricane victims.  She has been able to communicate with us on Facebook about the effects of the storm using her iPad with its long battery life. Of course she has no electricity on Staten Island, or shingles on her roof.  She said that several houses in her neighborhood had been flattened. According to the news, there were several deaths on Staten Island from the storm.  The Google Crisis Map shows:

• Power Outages
• Emergency shelters
• Traffic conditions

 I read where two hospitals had to evacuate all of their patients.  One of the hospitals lost its emergency backup generators.  I look forward to hearing more about the situations and disaster recovery efforts. 

Fortunately, we have only had constant wind gusts from the storm here in Georgia.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the millions of storm victims.  

The Google Trekker for Google Maps

When reading the Google Blogspot this morning, I recognized "The Trekker."  OMG!  Just last week, when I was driving home I saw what appeared to be a large helmet on a post on top of  a car.  It was so unusual that I drove closer - wondering if it could be a bicycle on top of the car with a large red helmet on top.  But then - the vehicle turned left and I could clearly see that it was not a bicycle, but a post.  When reading the Google Blogspot this morning about taking pictures of the Grand Canyon for Google maps - there is was!  I had followed a car with a Google Trekker mounted on top.