Voice-Controlled Google Maps; Become the Android

Google has announced that they are releasing an upgrade to Google Maps for their Android powered phones allowing you to control it using your voice. Yes, you will soon be the Android!

"We've added a whole host of new features and fixed a few issues with Google Latitude," they said.

Zoom in, Zoom out, Scroll left. Dodge that car. It's an interesting idea. Initially my first thoughts were that you would like an absolute idiot and I stand by this but it is starting to dawn on me that it does have some uses. Whenever I'm out shopping, getting drunk or wearing gloves I tend to find that I don't have a free hand to use my phone.

They have also added in transit and walking directions features meaning you can enter to go from point A to point B and be told exactly where to turn. I'm sure it will have its uses.

One of the major positives to this new update though is the ability to search your query

"You can now search Google Maps for Android using your voice, making it easier than ever to look up places while on the go. Whether you are searching for an address, a business, or nearby windsurfing spots, just speak your query and Google Maps will find it."

If this works as well as it sounds it is a fantastic addition to the software. Just imagine you're meeting a friend in Derby who you haven't seen in years, you don't know how to get in to town, where you want to go, or what time it shuts. You can do all this on your way there. See reviews, ratings and prices to help you make your decision.

The only worry is how well the voice recognition software works. From past experience I have never had that much luck with voice recognition software, particularly typing. "I am visiting my friend" would be written as "Yam visit ting life rend" Not helpful.

They comment on this saying that their engine currently recognises English in American, Australian and British accents which should help to improve accuracy.

They have also fixed a bug that was causing some users problems
"We fixed an issue that caused background location updates to periodically stop for some of you" they said.

Unlike past software updates to enjoy this one you will need to visit the Android Market and install it directly from there.

Press Release - Official Google Blog