Mobile mapping made easier

2005-11-07 09:22

Mountain View, California - Google Inc is introducing software on Monday designed to make its local search and mapping service easier to navigate on mobile phones, continuing the internet search engine leader's spread beyond personal computers.

Consumers who download and install the new software will be able to skip some of the steps that had been required since Google began offering a mobile version of its maps nearly seven months ago.

For instance, users won't have to type in their location before getting directions to a specific location, as long as their phone has Global Positioning System - or GPS - capabilities, said Deep Nishar, a director of Google's mobile products.

Google has been exploring ways to pinpoint the location of its users in order to better target ads from nearby merchants. But Nishar said that that goal isn't driving the mobile upgrade: the company doesn't plan to display ads alongside its mobile maps.

Ads generate virtually all of Google's revenue, which totaled $4.2bn through the first nine months of this year. The California-based company recorded a $1.1bn profit in that time, continuing an exceptional streak of prosperity that has propelled its market value above $100bn just seven years after its inception.

Emboldened by its success, Google has been busily expanding beyond its once-austere search engine. With the push, the search giant is becoming more and more involved in telecommunications, television and publishing.

Using Google's new mobile mapping software requires Java-enabled phones. Most subscribers with wireless service from Cingular, T-Mobile and Sprint should be able to use the software, Nishar said.

The service won't work with Verizon phones, Blackberry devices or Palm devices.

- AP