14 DAY TRIAL // Google has started to roll out a new iteration of its Google Maps application for Android devices, namely version 7.2, with some appealing enhancements packed inside.
The new app release has already started to emerge in Google Play Store, though it might still take some time before it arrives on all devices out there.
However, users can download the APK (see the download link below), so as to get a taste of the improvements included in the software.
Google hasn’t updated the app’s changelog as of now, but the guys over at Android Police have already had a closer look at it and unveiled some appealing new features.
Google Maps for Android 7.2 comes with route preview capabilities, as well as with a Start navigation button, all similar to what Google Now can offer.
Furthermore, the updated application comes with Hotel rates, while featuring a new Book option in the hotel listings. Users will be able to easily book a room from the application.
Starting with the new release, Google Maps for Android will also display hours of operation in bold letters.
Additionally, ratings in Google Maps for Android now have names, which should better explain what each of them represents: 1 - Hated it, 2 - Disliked it, 3 - It's okay, 4 - Liked it, and 5 - Loved it.
Android Police also notes that the application now requests new permissions, though it’s yet uncertain how these will be used.
There are a series of other enhancements included in the software as well, such as touch icons in the search screen, a strictly contextual map issues reporting, and the ability to handle goo.gl/maps URLs.
The Labs string is no longer present in Google Maps for Android following the 7.2 update, and there is also a new PrefetcherService internal service included in the software.
You can download Google Maps for Android 7.2 from Softpedia today. Make sure you choose the APK version suited for your Android flavor.