Google Maps for iPhone Gets Update, Faster Local Search, a New Social Tool & More Countries Added

On Tuesday, Google announced a software update for their Maps application for iPhone. It includes improvements on the local search, making it faster and with less effort, added countries’ maps, and a more social-friendly experience with more precise integration with your Google Contacts.

“This update is part of our goal to make Google Maps comprehensive, accurate and useful — wherever you may be in the world,” included Salahuddin Choudhary, Google Maps product manager. With that, the English version of Google Maps will be made available in seven new countries as part of the update: Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE.

Also, you’ll be able to switch from miles or kilometers based on preference.

To make local search more user-friendly and faster, Maps will now include icons for restaurants, coffee shops, bars and other types of similar establishments. In a rush, just tap the search box and the proper icon to get quick results. This will be convenient for those “I need a cup or coffee (or pint of beer) now and I’m far from home” moments. We’ve all been there, right? (Anyone?)

Google is now more closely integrating Google Contacts into it’s Maps iPhone application. If a contact individual’s home or work address is in your file for them, Maps will suggest their location when you search for them.

As always, the Google Maps app for iOS is available for free in the App Store.

<Source: Lat Long Blog>