Google Latitude: Interactive geographical location information service

GPS Becomes Standard Mobile Device Configuration

With the popularization of smart mobile communication devices, GPS modules have become a standard feature in an increasing number of smartphones. With the help of navigation software, you can easily locate yourself and navigate, avoiding getting lost in unfamiliar cities, and conveniently achieve many additional functions, such as searching for nearby living facilities.

Common Navigation Software

When it comes to navigation software, names like K-Lide and Minimap should be very familiar. Of course, there's also Google Maps Mobile, which holds an absolute advantage in satellite maps.

Google Maps Features

My Location (Beta). "My Location" displays your current position on the map (usually within 1,000 meters). Even without GPS, you can determine your location. Google Mobile Maps also supports built-in GPS and can link to Bluetooth GPS sensors for more accurate user positioning. The "My Location" function determines your position by identifying information broadcasts from wireless transmission towers near you.

Map and Satellite Views. Google Mobile Maps provide both map and satellite views of the area you're viewing, with an interface that feels no different from what you'd experience on a desktop computer. You can scroll in one direction to see more content on the map or use shortcut keys to zoom in or out.

Business Listings. Using Google's local search engine, you can search for businesses by name (such as "Starbucks") or by type (such as "coffee"). View store operating hours and ratings, then simply click to call the business you're interested in. With the "My Location" function, you don't even need to input your current location to easily find nearby businesses.

Driving Directions. It's very convenient to obtain driving directions, with each turn clearly marked. With the "My Location" function, you don't even need to input your starting point.

Public Transit (New!). View bus and subway lines, determine transfer routes, and plan your trips in over 80 cities around the world.

The "Public Transit" feature is currently available on BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, S60, and other Java-enabled phones.

Traffic Conditions. Highways in Google Maps are displayed in green, yellow, or red based on real-time traffic data.

Favorites. Add bookmarks for places you visit frequently so you can easily return to them on the map.