The rise and rise of Android is attributable to many factors. Things like the variety of handset choices, the openness of the apps for developers and the price in comparison to other smartphones being a big factor. For me one of my favourite things about Android is the inclusion of Google Maps as standard, including being able to use it as a sat-nav tool for free!

Today the Google Maps application, which comes as standard on all Android phones, got even better with the arrival of Google Maps for mobile 4.4 – the sixth update in six months for Google Maps!

Michael Siliski, Google’s Product Manager, had this to say, “With today’s launch of Google Maps for mobile 4.4, we’re introducing an even easier way to find places around you: a dedicated Places icon that lets you quickly look up nearby places and pick a place to go using updated Place Pages, just like on your computer”.

“On Android-powered phones with Google Maps 4.4, you’ll find the new Places icon in the app launcher with the rest of your app,” he adds.

“Press and drag it right onto your home screen to use it when you’re looking for a restaurant, shoe store, movie theatre or any other type of local business.

“You’ll get a detailed list of all the nearest places and can choose one to learn more about it on its Place Page.”

The app also usefully lists opening hours in the listings, alongside compass directions and distance!

Read more at Techradar