By Stela Roman
Google has blended navigation and walking directions in its Google Maps application.
Walking Navigation is available in beta now on Google Maps for Mobile 4.5 on Android. The feature marries GPS navigation with walking directions to help walkers find more direct methods of finding their destination on foot.
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The Google Maps navigator will guide the user to the chosen location by spoken voice, but the phone will also vibrate to alert walkers to make a turn. The map, which renders images in satellite view, will also rotate with the user as they turn the phone.
"Keep in mind that Walking Navigation is still in beta, and Google Maps may not always have up-to-date information or optimal walking routes. Whether you're walking or driving with Google Maps Navigation, you should always be safe and pay attention to road signs, follow signals and use good judgment about routes that can't be walked.", advised Google software engineers Andrey Ulanov and Kevin Law.
Users of Android 1.6 handsets and later, such as the Google Nexus One, Motorola Droid or HTC Incredible, will choose the Walking option from the Navigation icon in Google Maps for Mobile 4.5.
