New Google Maps for Mobile with “My Location”

Google has released a new version (v2.0) of Google Maps for Mobile. The new version includes a beta feature called "My Location", which uses cell tower ID to show user’s approximate location. Those who don’t have GPS enabled phone can make use of this technology to locate themselves and see what’s near them, instead of having to enter their location manually.

Pros:

• Works with all smartphones, including all color BlackBerry devices, all Symbian Series 60 3rd Edition devices, most Windows Mobile devices, newer Sony Ericsson devices, and some Motorola devices.
• Doesn’t drain battery as quickly as GPS.
• Works inside buildings where GPS signals are not available.

Cons:

• Not as accurate as GPS. Accuracy is said to well over 1000 meters, whereas GPS can locate you within few meters.
• Depends upon cell towers to locate, so it won’t work if you’re lost in a signal less place.

For those who are concerned about privacy, Google promises that they will never store your location data. Infact, they won’t even see the name or the phone number associated with the device. iPhone users are out of luck at the moment, but I’m sure Apple will sooner or later integrate this feature with the Google Maps application which comes with the device.

To get the new version of Google Maps, navigate to google.com/gmm or send text "BLUEDOT" to 33669.

When I tried My Location on my GPS enabled N95, the accuracy was incredibly good, but when I disabled GPS and then tried it again, it gave me "Your current location is temporarily unavailable" message.

[Via: Google Press Release -> Google OS]