Google Maps updated on Android

Google Maps has had an overnight update, bringing a host of new features to the Android platform.

The updated app, dubbed Google Maps 4.6, brings new features to the Places page, including an enhanced design, search filter options and real-time Latitude. Firstly, the Places Reviews page has been revamped to look more like Google’s desktop version, which now boasts a cleaner design, alongside reviews from both users and “from around the web”. The search feature now features new filtering options too, so you can search by places in your area, and even search for restaurants that are currently open. Always handy when trying to pick up a slice of late night pizza.

The last update, real-time Latitude, is both the most significant and the most creepy. Like Facebook Places, Google Maps can  track where you are, and can now provide you with live real-time updates from individual friends, who you can invite directly from your phonebook. You have to opt-in to use this feature, so you can choose whether your friends know your every move. To have your location broadcasted you need to have Android 2.2, although all other features are available on Android 1.6 and above.

Google Maps is currently available to download for free from the Android Market.

[Source: MobileBurn]