MapQuest Takes on Android, but Can it Beat Google Maps?
The AOL-owned MapQuest today launched a new and free Android app, finally extending its support beyond iOS. The app features everything the iPhone version does, with the exception of a couple new features, all of which represent a serious development case for MapQuest. That includes OpenStreetMap (OSM) data, which extends the mobile MapQuest database to international destinations.
“Our mission is to help people get where they need to go, and MapQuest’s new Android app will make available to millions of consumers a great mobile turn-by-turn experience specifically for Android.”
Another tweak which aims to realize this experience is error reporting. This feature crowdsources the task of optimizing MapQuest’s maps to the Android app’s user-base, and follows Waze and other start-ups who did exactly the same thing, but on a wider scale. In the bigger picture however, MapQuest’s Android app seems to have a goal of replacing users’ other GPS devices and services. Traffic data updated every 5 minutes comes alongside voice guiding, vocal destination search, a map toolbar and best route recommendation, all adding app to an in-phone free GPS.
MapQuest is working hard to validate its well-established name, but it’s not the only who’ve been active around mobile map and navigation development lately. Location-based services provider deCarta announced new a set of free mapping APIs, including one mobile-supporting HTML5 interface. Another update comes from Nokia’s end, who officially released Ovi Maps v3.06 to the Ovi Store after the app passed it beta stage. “This impressive navigation app offers lots of extra features over the older Ovi Maps 3.03, including a completely restyled menu and an easier to use interface.”
Microsoft and Google are both also heavily invested in map and navigation tools. Microsoft recently released the latest version of Microsoft Streets & Tips, which now offers a location-based experience for laptop users. Google isn’t left behind, and in addition to an augmented reality Street Views update called Art Project, the company also added automatic check-in options to the software.
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