Google Maps is back on the iPhone Video

Google Maps is back on the iPhone Video Transcript

-Hey everybody, welcome to tap that app. I'm Jason Parker. This is the show where we check out the hottest apps in the mobile space. Google Maps is finally back on the iPhone. With the complete interface redesigned, turn by turn directions with voice, street view, and Google's mapping accuracy, it's the biggest navigation app available on the device. With this version, you get a search field at the top to search for locations or addresses, the main map window in front and center as you would expect, and a tab in the lower right that slides out so you can choose layers. Here, you can toggle traffic, public transit, and satellite views. And you have a link to the Google Earth app for 3D views and other features. You'll notice this is a completely different design than the version from iOS 5 and I think it looks great. One of the features people have understandably missed from the old Google maps is street view. Unfortunately, it's back in this version. Just perform a search then swipe up from the bottom and hit the street view button to get a look at your designation in full swipeable 3D. Back on the search results screen, you can call, save to favorites, or share the location, but you also can scroll down for reviews from other people who have been there. When you want directions to your location, just tap the car icon in the lower right. On this screen, Google maps lists out various routes you can take and estimates your time of arrival even with traffic. You also have the old buttons at the top to switch between directions by car, public transit, or walking directions. From here, you can tap a route to see it on the map or touch the bar at the bottom to see directions listed out for you. But perhaps the most long-awaited feature for Google Maps on the iPhone is turn-by-turn directions with voice. Once your address is entered, all you have to do is hit the start button in the lower right. -Head southwest down to [unk] street to [unk]. With turn by turn, Google map switches into a sort of 3D view and continues to give your directions as you travel to your destination. There's also a button in the lower right where you can go back to the step-by-step list or mute the voice guidance. Last, but not the least, the latest version of Google Maps lets you enter search terms to find things around you. Just enter what you want like burger for example and Google Maps shows you nearby locations to get hamburgers. Just like any other destination, you can tap the car button on the lower right and you'll get directions to your next unhealthy meal. Google Maps is free and available now at the app store. It's important to note it is iPhone only. On the iPad, it doesn't look as good obviously, but it will get you there. Either way, if you want the power of Google Maps back on your iPhone, I definitely recommend you tap this app today. That's it for today's show, but if you have any suggestions, send them to Tap that App at cnet.com. I'm Jason Parker for CNET. Thanks for watching.