Google recently released an updated version of their Google Maps Android API that gives developers access to their comprehensive maps to build Android apps. The updated API features vector-based maps that load quickly and enables users to easily navigate 2D and 3D views, and tilt and rotate the map with simple gestures.

Google has incorporated the most requested features in the new version of the API, such as more dynamic and flexible UI designs for large screen Android devices, Android Fragments, more Google Maps layers that include satellite, hybrid, terrain, traffic and now indoor maps for many major airports and shopping centers.  There’s also added capabilities to create markers and info windows with less code.

Apps such as Expedia Hotels and FlightTrack already use the Google Maps Android API, and soon these apps will be updated with a totally new experience for end users.  One app maker that was truly anxious to leverage Google’s Maps API update is Trulia, the online residential real estate site for home buyers, sellers, renters and real estate professionals. They’ve already updated their free Android app with the latest Google Maps Android API to feature a more interactive map.  The updated app will give users ease of navigation in 2D or 3D views to discover crime, school attendance zones, and nearby amenities like restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores.

This information will help people compare neighborhoods and actually leverage more data to help them reach the right decisions when it comes to home investments.

Trulia’s app features vivid photo slideshows, real-time notifications for saved homes and searches, and local neighborhood info which provides home facts, listing details, and open house info for homes and rentals on the market across the US.

Aside from the updated Maps API, Trulia’s Android app now also features Personalized Loan Quotes from a number of real lenders, in real time; Quote Comparison to easily sort quotes by lowest fees, APR, rate, or payment to find ones just right for you; Affordability Calculator  to determine the home price you can afford and see a visual breakdown of your monthly and total payment, and Connect with Lenders directly from your Android device to learn more about a specific quote.