Google Maps updated, 50 billion kilometers navigated

Google continues to add features to its Maps service for mobile, and the latest version of Google Maps for Android adds in a couple of small changes which may make it easier to get around. First up, there's a new home screen for Google Maps Navigation on Android 4.0 devices. Secondly, Google's improved the way Maps works on phones with high resolution displays, like the Galaxy Nexus, and optimized the way text and vector graphics are shown on these devices. Finally, you can now prioritize a particular mode of public transport when getting directions, and specify fewer transfers or less walking depending on your preferences. Google says that public transport schedules and directions are now available for 475 cities around the world.

Along with today's update comes the news that Android users have navigated 50 billion kilometers To give a little perspective, Google points out that's ten times the distance from Earth to Neptune, the farthest planet from the Sun. As Maps for Android approaches its fourth birthday, it remains a major differentiating feature for Google's OS. In the very unlikely event that you're not already using it, you can find Google Play Store links after the break.

More: Google Blog

Alex Dobie
Executive Editor

Alex was with Android Central for over a decade, producing written and video content for the site, and served as global Executive Editor from 2016 to 2022.