Google Maps Update Deals Another Blow to GPS

As Google Maps for Android becomes more powerful, buying a standalone GPS device becomes harder to justify.

An update to Google Maps for Android, which will roll out in a matter of days according to the New York Times, includes 3D building images in major cities and dynamic rendering for a smoother experience while panning and zooming.

But the biggest new feature, and the one that poses the latest threat to dedicated GPS devices, is offline mapping and navigation.

Previously, Google Maps Navigation would cache a single route when you looked up directions, so if you got lost in a dead zone, Android couldn't help out. After the update, Google Maps will store maps of your most-frequently searched locations locally. Although GigaOM reports that you won't be able to look up new locations when you're offline, you will be able to get turn-by-turn guidance after navigating off-course.

Google Maps Navigation debuted in October 2009, bringing turn-by-turn voice guidance to Android phones. Nokia followed in January, and although the iPhone's Maps app doesn't have voice navigation,Mapquest 4 Mobile's free app does.

More at:  PCWorld