Google Maps at the Gas Pumps

Many might remember fragments of discussions from their childhood between their parents, while being in the back seat of the car, about whether to go left or right, checking road maps and most important, about stopping, rolling down the window and asking some complete strangers for directions. I know I do and it always came down to the same line: "We're not lost, I know exactly where we are!" and then driving perhaps for hours in circles rather than stopping for a second opinion from a local.

Driving always seemed to be a way of expressing power, dominance, certainty and confidence, whereas pulling over for help from another human being…well… let's say it diminishes greatly that appearance. Good news! Google has signed a deal with a company called Gilbarco Veeder-Root that will produce what might be called "smart" gas pumps that will include an Internet connection and a kiosk/screen. All kinds of searching will be included and the drivers will be able to print directions and coupons. The first version of the offering (said to be coming this December) will probably not allow for a specific address lookup but the option will be included in the near future.

Greg Sterling of searchengineland.com says that "this is quite an interesting extension of Google Maps and bridges the desktop and mobile. The coupon dimension to this is also quite interesting and full of possibilities (e.g., discounts on places to eat or stay nearby). I would expect this to be perhaps the first of a range of potential, similar "kiosk" extensions of Google Maps into the ." Google Maps will be presented at the pump through the Applause Media System, which "combines existing tools like Smart Merchandising and new applications like Google Maps into an easy to use, scaleable suite of on-screen applications for your Encore S platform."

Once again, it's Google to the rescue! No more having to admit you were wrong about the road you chose, maps that a machine prints instead of directions given to you on a condescending/helping tone are a welcomed addition to the driving experience as this deal has a worldwide potential reach. And it's about time somebody came up with the idea.