San Francisco — If you admire globe trotting and a penchant for some exciting adventure, then iPhone users with an interest in exploring the world, have a reason to rejoice today: In a blog post released by Google Earth Product Manager Peter Birch, said that the company has released version 2.0 of Google Earth for has updated its iPhone application, and the software has been improved in just about every way.
A post on the LatLong Blog stated, “We have added some exciting new capabilities, including the ability to view maps that you create on your desktop computer right from your iPhone, explore the app in new languages, and enhanced icon selection and performance.”
“My Maps” on iPhone
Among other features, the most important modifications in Version 2.0 of Google Earth is the ability to view custom maps stored in the “My Maps” section of users’ Google Maps accounts.
While you are connected to Google Maps on your computer, you can save the maps that attracts you most so they will show up when you log in to your iPhone app with the same authorization. You can also create your own maps in Google Earth manually or by hooking up a GPS-enabled device and turning your location data into a KML file.
Google Earth for iPhone now offers users a chance to view their customized maps in the iPhone app. Maybe you are on a trip walking around looking for a restaurant and you wish to see where world-famous chef Ferran Adrià likes to eat.
Once you are through with your search, all you have to do is click “Save to My Maps,” open Earth on the iPhone, log in with the same account information, and voilà, you have your same collection of My Maps right in your pocket.
“My Maps” on Desktop
The update also adds visual feedback to highlight icons when they have been touched. The example given is a look at the route taken to climb a mountain; however, the same tools and concept can be employed to track marathons, sailing regatas, road trips and basic travel. For information on how to convert GPS data into Google Earth, users can visit Google’s KML Support Section.
Now, as you touch the icon, a small glow shows up below your finger to let you know which icon you have picked. If your finger touches more than one icon, you will be directed to a list of all icons, so you can select the one you are interested in.
Apart from other big difference is that this release of Google Earth for iPhone is available in 13 new languages (for a total of 31).
The official Google post concluded, “We hope you enjoy our latest release. Please note that the app will be rolling out around the world over the next twenty-four hours — if you do not see it immediately, be sure to check back soon.” And if you have not already downloaded the application, you can do so here.